Fitness for Business Travelers

7 Secrets to Pump Up Your Workout While Traveling

By Jeanie Callen Barat

Do you let your constant business trips ruin your fitness progress? Traveling for business has its perks—such as earning points and miles for your vacation trip. But the stress that accompanies business travel and the extra hours in airline seats and rental cars can be hazardous to your health and fitness plan.

Just because you leave your hometown behind, doesn't mean you have to leave your exercise plan, too. Traveling can be the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the extra time to kick-start your workouts and enjoy the extra energy surge.

Keeping your exercise routine consistent while you're traveling can actually make your stressful time away more enjoyable. Here's how:

• Your body craves the good feeling exercise brings on. So instead of depriving it of those endorphins, keep them humming by walking, running or swimming. A strong workout can be just what you need to get your ready for your big meeting. And, it can help you de-stress after a long day.

• Sticking to your exercise plan keeps your energy levels high. Energy is definitely something we can all use more of when we're on the road, especially when traveling for business.



• You will feel great when you return home slimmer than when you left rather than having to lose a few pounds from the buffet breakfasts, cocktail hours and late night business dinners.

As you hit the road, follow these 7 winning ideas keeping your fitness plan on track while traveling for business.

1. Bring your gear.
Stop trying to save space. Pack your workout shoes, workout outfits and any equipment such as hand and ankle weights. Ask yourself what's worse: the extra pounds in your luggage or the extra pounds on you?

2. Test it out.
Test your travel workout before you go away on your business trip. This familiarity will encourage you to complete the workout on the road. If you aren't sure of the facilities at your destination, plan exercises that don't require equipment, such as push-ups and crunches.

3. Do your research.
Before you go, research the best place to do your favorite exercise. If you love running, seek out best running trails are. If aerobics classes turn you on, search for gyms in the areas and check out their class schedules.

4. Stick with your routine.
Sometimes you think getting away is the perfect time to try something new. Variety is great but if you are attempting an exercise you are not familiar with, chances are you will forget about it. Just pick what you love and enjoy the new setting. Although if you are personally inspired to try a new and exotic activity, such as snorkeling or waterskiing—go for it.

5. Commit to healthy eating.
Eating healthy while on the road can be a challenge—especially when traveling for business. But the good news is that restaurants do offer healthier choices. You just have to make them.
Make a commitment to enjoy the local fare or a favorite dish, while forgoing the extras you can live without. Don't be afraid to ask for sauces and dressings on the side. Order fruit for breakfast and double the vegetables during your late night business dinner.

6. Share the fun.
When you are on the road, invite others to join you. This will keep you accountable. Invite your co-worker or potential customer to join you for a run or trip to the local pool. Skip the happy hour and opt for a walk. Use this time to catch up or network with an important business contact.

7. Maximize your time.
If you are crunched for time, try the most efficient and effective workout for fat loss—interval training. By alternating bouts of high intensity with low intensity training, you will accelerate your metabolism. Plus you will trigger a surge of energy and adrenaline that will keep you going all day guaranteed.
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