6 Things I Do to Maintain Health and Fitness When I Travel
I’ve been travelling a lot recently and absolutely love it. Every time I go on a trip I keep refining my approach and what works best for me. The key with travel and other events is to think of them as part of your life. We have to learn to bridge that gap. I wanted to share some quick and simple steps that I apply to every place I go to whether it’s for business or leisure, a staycation or a remote getaway.
1. Always carry a water bottle
No word of a lie, my water bottle goes everywhere with me around the world. I have it on hand so I can stay hydrated at all times. I even take it to restaurants and cafes and get them to fill it up with ice and water. So, if I’m off for a walk around town or have a busy day, I always have access to water.
2. Have go-to snacks
My go-to snacks differ depending on where I am in the world:
Nuts and seeds, oat bars, and bananas
Deli and convenience snacks like boiled eggs and pre-cooked meats
Biltong
Pre-made protein shakes
If I’m going to a completely new place or country I will bring enough snacks for the first couple of days while I get my bearings.
3. Remember fruit
The thing about fruit is you know you can pretty much get it anywhere. I love fruit as it gives my sweet tooth a hit, it gives me some carbs, and keeps me going through the day. I usually go for grapes, satsumas, apples, blueberries, and bananas (although bananas do not travel well (still figuring out that one as I end up at times with mashed banana and that’s just gross).
4. Take protein powder
If you’re not always sure where you’re getting your protein from or the country you’re going has limited options, it's great to pack a tupperware or bag with some protein powder.
I simply have a glass of iced water and protein powder.
Another option is having a pre-made shake like Huel or Barebells - you can find them around the world. If I know I am going to be somewhere longer, I pre-order them for when I am there.
Prime example: I’m traveling to Europe for the summer. I already have a tub of protein powder at my parents, but I have also ordered 24 bottles of the chocolate Barebells shake. Helping future you requires more work and upfront planning and thinking about what works for you.
5. Boost your electrolytes
I love having electrolyte boosters in my bag no matter where I am in the world. They’re great post-flight to bump up your hydration, if you’re travelling to a hot country, or need that booster post-workout.
They don’t take up much space and are a great way to help you hydrate and get the extra minerals in whilst you’re on the move.
6. Walk everywhere you can
Walking is the most easily accessible type of exercise you have available to you - especially when travelling. It’s free, it doesn’t require much effort to start, and you can see more of the place and country that you’re in.
Recently I was in Singapore and every morning I woke up and went for a walk, rain or shine. It set me up for my day so no matter how busy I was I still got my movement in. It’s great for your base fitness levels, overall health, and mental clarity.
Give these tips a try and for more check out my latest post 6 Ways to Maintain your Training Goals on Holiday to help you find what works for you.
