How To Stay Fit on Vacation

Going on vacation is an opportunity to relax, take it easy, and escape from day-to-day life for a while. But if you’re sitting on the beach for a week straight while ingesting a steady diet of sugary cocktails and fried foods, vacation can really take a toll on your waistline, not to mention your energy levels.

Fortunately, staying fit while on vacation is simple, and you’ll still have plenty of time to bask in the sun! Read on for some of our favorite tips for feeling great and staying active during your vacation.

WALK EVERYWHERE. One of the best ways to experience a new destination is to walk as much as possible, so pack a comfortable pair of shoes and get stepping! You’re more likely to meet locals, discover a fantastic out-of-the-way café, or stumble upon some fantastic views by exploring on foot. If you wear a Fitbit or another type of fitness tracker, you’ll be surprised at how quickly steps add up just by walking around.

DISGUISE FITNESS AS FUN. Kayaking, horseback riding, snorkeling, swimming – these are all excellent sources of exercise that don’t feel like working out because they’re so enjoyable. A game of tennis, a round of golf, or a morning in a sea kayak can be as beneficial as a treadmill session in the gym, but they’re probably a lot more fun, too.

MAKE A CHALLENGE PART OF YOUR ITINERARY. Book your trip to coincide with a personal physical challenge – for example, sign up to run Marathon Bahamas in January! It’s the perfect way to combine fitness with fun, and you’re in the ideal destination to celebrate after you’ve crossed the finish line.

GO FOR A RUN. Running is one of the easiest types of exercise to enjoy on the road because you can do it anywhere, you don’t need any special equipment, and it’s free! Ask your hotel’s front desk staff for recommended running routes in the area, or use a site such as MapMyRun to do some research before you travel. See what other runners are saying and browse shared routes.

SIGN UP FOR RESORT ACTIVITIES. Many resorts and hotels offer opportunities for group fitness, such as sunrise yoga sessions on the beach, dance classes, or beach volleyball tournaments. For example, the fitness center at Atlantis Paradise Island offers Pilates and Barre classes!

WORK OUT IN YOUR ROOM. Download a fitness app such as Nike Training Club (free) or Yoga Studio ($4.59) and you can work out anywhere, with very little equipment. Just grab a yoga mat or a towel and use water bottles instead of dumbbells. You can even get a great workout in your hotel room – no gym visit required!

STAY SAFE. If you’re vacationing in a warm destination, make sure to use adequate sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, and to drink lots of water when you exercise to prevent dehydration or overheating. Consider working out first thing in the morning before it gets hot, and make sure you bring along your room key and your phone for safety.

With our sunny days and refreshing ocean breezes, The Bahamas is the perfect place for an active vacation with countless ways to keep fit while having fun. Start planning your Nassau Paradise Island getaway now!