Maintaining a diligent workout routine at home, while challenging at times, is manageable because we can make it a routine part of our daily lives. Like going to work, school, church, music lessons, etc...
But our best of intentions often disappear when we travel because we lose that familiar routine. Wether its the change in schedule, absence of training partner, or lack of gym access, working out seems to fall by the way side unfortunately.
I recently encountered this same situation with a friend of mine who I was training for a fitness challenge this spring. She was going to be away for an entire month but still wanted to maintain her exercise program despite the challenges of being away from her trainer and equipment.
So I chatted with her and designed for her my “personal trainer in a bag” to take with her on her trip - a fitness tool she’ll actually use!!!
In it I placed:
- A jump rope for her to use in combination with her running plan to maintain her cardio regardless of weather or orientation challenges.
- Resistance band (with illustrated guide) to maintain her strength training (when dumb-bells are too heavy to pack).
- My fav workout mixed CD (for her to download to her ipod). All songs with upbeat training themes to keep her going.
- Pilates (or other fitness) DVDs (so easy to pack along with your laptop).
- My email & blog address, as well as an invite to skype for any long distance advice she might need.
This small light-weight “personal trainer in a bag” can easily be packed in any suitcase or carry-on, and gives you all the tools needed to maintain a fitness plan on the road, wether its for a week or a month.
So don’t stop working out when you have to travel. Just get creative!
Don’t forget many resorts, hotels and condos have fitness facilities that guests can use, so always pack your sneakers and sweats no matter what.
So good luck out there! Keep on working hard. You won’t regret it.
