Is it possible to go on vacation and not gain weight?
Q: I’ve been working hard since the new year to get in shape for summer but am worried my spring vacation will knock me off track. Do you have any suggestions on how to go on vacation without gaining 10 pounds?
A: Vacations can be a great time to add a little spark to your workouts, but you have to plan carefully or you will be left out in the cold.
Here are a few things I found useful when traveling to help you stay in shape while enjoying your vacation.
Pick a resort with a decent gym
Years ago, I went to the Dominican Republic, and I remember asking the travel agent if there was gym where I could get a good workout. The agent quickly told me not to worry because there was a state-of-the-art facility on the premises, and guess what? I was foolish enough to believe her. The state-of-the-art facility turned out to be one broken-down treadmill and a couple rusty dumbbells. I should have done my research. In today’s world of technology there are no excuses. Take the time to surf the web and make sure that the resort you’re paying for has exercise equipment to fit your needs.
Pack airport snacks
These days, going to the airport can be an all-day experience, so make sure you pack some healthy snacks so you don’t end up stuffing your face with fast food because there’s nothing else to eat. I always make sure I eat a good breakfast before leaving the house and bring snacks such as fruit, nuts or a healthy sandwich because I know healthy choices will be limited.
Stay away from buffets
Buffets are economically sound but leave you obligated to eat more to get your money’s worth. It makes much more sense to visit the local grocery store and pick up some healthy snacks or check out the local restaurants for healthy choice meals than it does to gorge yourself. If you choose an all-inclusive, be sure to chose your foods wisely. Stay away from the breads and extra desserts and stick with lean meats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
Increase cardiovascular training
Most people would be in better shape if they had more time to devote to their workouts. Well, here’s your chance. Use your vacation as a chance to shift gears and do more cardio to burn off extra calories. If you are used to doing 30 minutes a day of cardio, try working up to 40-45 minutes. The added calorie burn will help make up for the extra food you will be consuming and will allow you to treat yourself.
Earn your treats
If you plan on having a big dinner and some drinks, make sure you plan for it by doing an intense preworkout to earn your guilty pleasures. The extra work will help cancel out the extra calories, leaving you feeling deserving of desserts.
Train outside
One of the best ways to get familiar with an area is to walk or jog outdoors. Last summer while visiting Hawaii, I ran more in a week than I ever had on the mainland and found it easy because of the beauty of the landscape and the cool sights the area offered.
Stay active
Don’t waste your vacation sitting in the resort staring at the bartender. Pick activities that keep you active. Go swimming, hiking, zip lining, scuba diving or take walks to view the local sites. The extra calories you burn add up quickly and will help you maintain much better than lying by the pool sucking down frozen drinks all day.
Remember, balance is the key to maintaining while on vacation. You deserve to eat, drink and relax, but don’t use it as an excuse to get out of shape. Plan smart and you will be able to have a great time while staying in shape.
