On the Road Again: Top Tips for Healthy Travels

Here at HMR, we just got back from our annual trainings in CA and FL with HMR Programs across the country. Overall, it’s a great time, but with so much that gets packed into these days, it can be easy to let my healthy routines fall to the wayside and go with the not-so-healthy flow when I’m away from home.

Now, the good news is that since I work for HMR – a company committed to its employees’ health and well-being – there are always plenty of healthy food options during the training. The other bonus is that we stay at hotels near miles of walking paths. And even though it’s not always this easy, it IS possible to take care of your health when travelling.

My Favorite Tips for Keeping it Healthy When Travelling:

• Pack lots of healthy snacks – especially fruit and veggies. They have a high water content, which helps counteract the dryness of the plane. Staying well hydrated also makes you have to use the rest room at least once, and getting up and moving helps with blood circulation.
• Pack workout clothes! You’ll be more likely to get out and go for a walk or a run if you’ve got the gear with you.
• Consider packing a resistance band to do strengthening exercises in your room. You could also pack a jump rope to bust out some quick (and intense!) cardio (just be sure you do it in a safe place with plenty of room).
• Check with the concierge for a nearby grocery store and stock up on water and healthy snacks for the room.
• While you’re at it, ask about safe walking/jogging routes that are easy to get to.
• When possible, make exercise plans with a travel buddy. Picking an early morning meet-up time provides accountability, and having a buddy to go with makes it more enjoyable.
• Look for opportunities during the day to stretch your legs outside. Bring sneakers with you to meetings (in your bag) and during breaks or any down time during the day, get outside for a few minutes of walking (every little bit helps!).
• Take advantage of the hotel gym. Some hotels offer swanky gyms with tons of machines and classes. Other places have much smaller scale gyms with just a few machines. Either way, give it a shot. Check out a class, or do some intervals on the elliptical machine or the treadmill.

Making it a priority to exercise and eat right while you are traveling for work will keep you sharp and focused, while also bringing some balance to busy, out-of-the-ordinary work days.

What other ways do you take care of yourself when you are out of your own healthy routines?

 

by JessieDavenport on 03/13/2013 | Share Story With a Friend

tags: motivation, exercise, planning, strategies, travel