Going on holiday is the perfect time to rest, reset, and enjoy new experiences. But for those who have built a consistent fitness routine, the thought of taking a break from training can feel unsettling. The good news is you do not have to choose between enjoying your holiday and maintaining your fitness. With some creativity and flexibility, you can do both.

Here are practical ways to stay active while travelling, without missing out on the joy of your holiday.

1. Shift Your Mindset

Holidays are not the time to follow rigid training plans. Think of movement as a way to enhance your experience, not take away from it. The goal is not necessarily to make progress, but to maintain your current fitness and stay consistent.

Take a relaxed approach to workouts and focus on how your body feels. Shorter, lighter sessions are perfectly acceptable when your routine is disrupted.

2. Use What Is Available

You do not need a full gym to stay active. Use your environment to your advantage:

• Beach holidays: Go for a morning swim, jog on the sand, or try bodyweight circuits near the water.

• City breaks: Walk as much as possible. Explore on foot or by bike and aim for 15,000 to 20,000 steps a day.

• Countryside retreats: Take scenic hikes, do outdoor yoga, or try trail runs to stay energised.

Every movement counts, even if it looks different from your normal routine.

3. Pack Smart

When travelling, bring a few essentials that make training more accessible:

• Resistance bands for strength training

• Lightweight trainers for walking or jogging

• Comfortable workout clothing

• A skipping rope for cardio

These compact items can fit easily into your suitcase and make all the difference when trying to stay active abroad.

4. Keep Workouts Short and Effective

You do not need a full hour to train. Ten to twenty minutes of focused movement is often enough to maintain your base level of fitness.

Try a simple bodyweight workout like:

• 20 squats

• 15 push-ups

• 20 walking lunges

• 30 seconds of mountain climbers

• 15 burpees

Repeat this circuit 3 times for a quick and effective session.

Alternatively, set a timer for 15 minutes and cycle through exercises like jumping jacks, planks, squats, and tricep dips using a bench or chair.

5. Incorporate Movement Into Your Itinerary

You can stay active without even thinking of it as a workout. Schedule activities that naturally keep you moving:

• Walking tours

• Try a new outdoor sports

• Hiking in national parks

• Dancing at local events

• Swimming in the sea or pool

Choose activities you enjoy and your holiday will naturally become an active experience.

6. Stay Hydrated and Well Nourished

Hydration is crucial, especially if you are travelling to a warm destination. Carry a reusable water bottle and aim to drink at least 2 litres per day.

As for food, it is normal to indulge while on holiday. But try to include some balance:

• Eat a source of protein with each meal

• Include fruits and vegetables where possible

• Avoid skipping meals, as it can lead to energy crashes

Enjoy your treats, but support your body with nutrient dense foods when you can.

7. Prioritise Recovery

Travelling can be tiring, especially when changing time zones or spending long hours in transit. Make sleep and recovery a priority to ensure your body adapts well to movement.

• Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep

• Stretch regularly, especially after flights or long walks

• Use rest days as part of your plan

Rest is just as important as training and will help you return home feeling refreshed rather than fatigued.

8. Set Realistic Goals

Holiday fitness is not about progress, but about maintenance and enjoyment. If you do less than usual, that is completely fine. The key is to keep moving in a way that fits into your travel plans without stress or guilt.

Remember that missing a few sessions will not undo months of hard work. The consistency you build long term matters far more.

Final Thought

If you are unsure how to structure workouts while travelling or how to adapt your training to a temporary environment, consult with a personal trainer. A trainer can help you create a simple, effective plan that keeps you on track without overwhelming your holiday.

A bespoke fitness programmes can be tailored to your travel style, fitness goals, and equipment access. Whether you are aiming to stay active, maintain strength, or just keep moving, you do not have to figure it all out on your own.

Ready to make your fitness fun and sustainable this summer? Contact me today to book your consultation and let’s find the approach that works for you.
Website: www.jsmfitness.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07590 830263

St Albans Personal Trainer, serving Harpenden & Surrounding Areas in Hertfordshire