It not always easy to stay healthy when you’re on the road regularly. Sometimes you have no access to a kitchen to make a healthy meal. Your gym may be a thousand miles away. But don’t worry, because there are lots of little things you can integrate into your life on the road that will help keep you in good shape. Here are some tips for getting exercise while traveling for business.
Keep on the Move at the Airport
Sitting for long periods of time is one of the worst things you can do for your physical fitness. Most of us already sit more often than we should at work, and you’ll be sitting for your entire flight — so don’t get a head start at the airport.
Unless you’re in a rush to catch your flight, take the stairs, not the escalator. Walk instead of hopping on the people-mover in favor of the original people mover — your legs. Instead of sticking at the gate or at the bar, walk around the terminal. Airports are among the best places for people-watching.
Rent a Bike and Explore the Neighborhood
Bike-share programs are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas across the U.S. They provide residents and visitors alike with a cheap, easy and fun way to get around town. In many cities, it seems like there’s a bike-sharing station on every other block. Take advantage of that.
While some bike share programs offer long-term memberships, they all offer an option for a single day or even less. Some charge by the half-hour. If the weather’s nice, what better way is there to get out and see the neighborhood than on a bicycle? Not to mention that you can burn as much as 1,000 calories an hour, depending on how fast you ride.
Be sure to stay safe, though. Always wear a helmet and obey all traffic laws.
Sign Up for a One-Time Fitness Pass, or a Class
What’s your exercise of choice? Is it weight lifting to build muscle, riding the exercise bike or yoga to mellow out? Or is it something else?
Chances are, there’s a gym not far from where you are staying. While gym memberships can be quite pricy, day passes aren’t. Some gyms even allow non-members to use the gym for free for a day in hopes of winning them over as members.
If you’re only looking for one class, you can usually do that, too. Some gyms charge by the class for options like spin and body pump. Yoga and pilates studios almost always have a drop-in class rate, usually $20 or less, for those just looking for one session.
There are lots of options. It might not be as good as your gym at home, but it’s certainly better than doing nothing.
Find a Hike Nearby
Get out of the city a bit by going on a hike if you’ve got some time. Hiking is a great early morning activity, or late afternoon as well. If the weather is mild, it’s a great thing to do any time of day. Getting out into the great outdoors is a great way to ease the stress of travel and work.
There are lots of resources for hikers online, many of them city-specific. On the national level, we recommend All Trails to help you find a hike near you.
Last, But Not Least: Take a Walk, or Go for a Jog
Walking is good for you. You know that. Walk to the restaurant for dinner if it’s close. Walk to a meeting if you can. Or just take a walk or jog for the sake of getting outdoors. You won’t regret it.
For more suggestions and tips, you should check out the Mayo Clinic’s extensive guide for business travelers on staying healthy and in shape.
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