How To Feel Fit And Flexible On Vacation

You spend the majority of the year working hard not only at your job, but on your body. You spend hours at the gym, building strength and staying limber. No doubt you've earned a vacation, whether it's a week on the beach, a road trip with the family, or a classic adventure. While it's understandably challenging to improve on your gains while on the road, what are some ways to maintain your fitness while traveling, while carrying minimal equipment?

The first two suggestions don't require equipment at all. You may be able to step outside your accommodations and just go for a walk or run! Better yet, have the family join you for some bonding time as well as time soaking up some sunshine.

If that's not quite your speed, YouTube is full of exercise videos of all different lengths and types, ranging from yoga to HIIT to bodyweight strength. Pull up an empty space in your room, or outside in a park, and enjoy your online exercise class!

If you're willing to pack some small equipment, resistance bands are easily available online, and very affordable. They are small and pack easily in a carry-on. If you don't know what to do with your bands, some sets will come with a small guide. But if you still run out of ideas, again, there are many resistance band videos on YouTube! Most sets of small resistance bands are very affordable. Here’s a set that even comes with a convenient travel bag.

Another useful piece of small equipment is a lacrosse or tennis ball. It won't directly make you stronger, but if you've had a long day of physical activity, it can feel great to roll out your muscles on a ball, so that you feel refreshed for the next day! This is a compact piece of equipment which, again, easily fits in a carry-on. A lacrosse ball is harder than a tennis ball, so if you're used to deep tissue massage, the lacrosse ball would be the way to go. Otherwise, a tennis ball should be fine, if you're not used to deeper pressure. This is also an inexpensive tool which you can buy at a sporting goods store for a few dollars.

That said, make sure that your vacation time is enjoyable. You don't want to overstress your mind and body while on vacation! Use your best judgment to find your personal balance.

Here are some great local day trips on Cape Cod to keep you moving!

Cape Cod Rail Trail

Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail

Stand Up & Paddle Cape Cod

Adventure Chatham

Cape Cod Inflatable Park