It’s that time of year when a lot of us are starting to dream of going on vacation. Whether you are planning something extravagant or just going to the next town over, your travel plans probably include taking a little downtime.

While you deserve to take a break from your workout routine, it’s important to stay at least somewhat active over your vacation. If you take too much time off from your exercise routine, you’ll start to lose all the gains you have made. Fortunately, you don’t need to log hours on the treadmill while your family has fun at the beach to maintain your fitness.

Stay Fit on Vacation Without Spending Your Days at the Gym

These tips can help you maintain your fitness level when you need a break so that you can come back in the same shape as you were when you left home.

1. Think short and sweaty

You aren’t taking a vacation just to go to the gym, so keep your workouts short and sweaty. A 15-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout can burn more calories than a 40-minute moderate-intensity workout. Focus on going all out for 15 minutes a few times during your vacation to increase your heart rate and keep your muscles in shape.

You can find HIIT workouts online or make up your own using whatever equipment is available or bodyweight exercises. A circuit of jumping jacks, squats, pushups, burpees, and mountain climbers will boost your heart rate, plus you can do it all from the comfort of your hotel room.

2. Hit the pool

If your vacation includes a pool, make an effort to do more than just lounge by it. Swim a few laps or just walk around the pool to get your heart rate up and work your muscles. Water adds up to 14 percent resistance compared with land, so walking in the water will help you burn some extra calories.

The same is true for any body of water. Getting into the water at the beach is another great way to have fun and get some extra movement in at the same time.

3. Don’t forget to stretch

The great thing about stretching is that you can do it anywhere! It’s the perfect way to unwind in your hotel room at the end of a busy (or relaxing) day on vacation.

Do some stretches before heading out for the day and at night to relax your tired muscles so you can get some much-needed rest. Gentle stretching can also prepare your body for a long flight or drive, so make sure to stretch before you depart for home.

Stay Loose with Help from the Stretch Spot

Whether you are just getting started with your fitness routine or are an athlete looking to reach that next level, we are here to help you get the most out of your body so you can feel your best with every step you take.

Stretch therapy can help you release tension while improving your posture and flexibility. Schedule an appointment at the StretchSPOT to get started!