Whether you are recovering from an injury, use exercise to manage pain, or want to keep your fitness up, there are plenty of creative ways to perform rehab or exercise.
Taking a break from these activities can set you back, which is always unfortunate as we all want to feel good as soon as possible and continue to improve in our health. Since traveling involves lots of sitting on transportation, changing normal eating habits, a disrupted sleep schedule, increased stress of being out of your environment, potentially increased alcohol consumption, and decreased exercise, it can really take a toll on the body.
Some of these things you can control while you’re traveling, and exercise is one you have control over. It will only help you feel better and enjoy the trip even more. Also, exercise boosts your mood and can be a fun way to explore a new place.
I recently went to Europe with my husband for three weeks and we found different ways to exercise. We got to see more things than we would have if we hadn’t and we made great memories in the process. Here are some examples:
Exercising at a park
Lots of parks have work out stations, so keep an eye out. Or, you can bring your exercise bands and use body weight to workout on the grass.
Hiking
If you are in a mountainous place, hiking is great exercise to get some cardio.
Running
Slip on your gym shoes and go for a jog. Especially in the mornings before the crowds come out. That way you have the place to yourself and can take great pictures.
Walking
Walking is a great way to stay moving and see even more. Opt for walking over short public transport routes. Also, if there is a hill, chances are there is a good view and something special on top.
Biking
Renting a bike is a fairly inexpensive way to get exercise, have your own mode of transport, and go further than you normally would go on foot. You also get to see things that public transport can’t take you to.
Swimming
If there is good weather and safe water, get in. Even just treading water is great exercise.
Yoga
Doing yoga in the grass can keep you flexible and stretch out your muscles from all the sitting on transportation (or beach chair) or hours of walking through the city.
There you have it! It’s possible to stay active while enjoying your well-earned vacation. Your body will thank you for it.
-- Danielle Melton, DPT, CSCS