Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Top 10 Tips for Working Out on Vacation for Entrepreneurs



Although entrepreneurs tend to work 70-80 hour weeks, they do have an advantage that other corporate employees may not...extra vacation.  After all, entrepreneurs create their own hours (even if it is until 3:00AM), determine their own vacation blocks and design their own day-to-day schedules.  It's one of the perks!


Unfortunately for us, however, vacation usually means a lot of sleeping, a lot of eating and a lot of drinking.  Unless we stay active on vacation, these random breaks from work life can make us feel less refreshed and more sluggish upon our return home.


This week, I'm in Florida on Spring Break with my family.  The beach is crystal blue, the sky is clear and the drinks are cold.  But, with my Think Big Fitness Challenge and Ruckus St. Louis in mind, it's also important for me to get off the chaise lounge and work out.  With that, here are my top 10 tips for working out on vacation: 


1.  Pack up your gear
One of the best ways to get in a good work out while on vacation is to actually pack up your gear!  Throw your lightweight work out equipment in your suitcase before you leave (try 5 pound dumbbells, jump ropes or resistance bands).


2.  Carry on
Getting to the airport alone can be a workout!  Carry on your bags so you get a workout while walking to your gate, off the plane, into your cab and eventually, into your hotel room.  Rolling your suitcase is a way to burn more calories while walking!  


3.  Wear a pedometer 
While on vacation, attach a pedometer to your side to watch how many steps you're taking each day.  The more you walk, the more fitness points you get! 


4.  Take the stairs
Try taking the stairs (yes, even in the airport) while on vacation.  These extra steps can add up fast and your calves will be burning in no time.  


5.  Plan activities in advance
Although many of us like to fly by the seat of our pants while on vacation, it may be best to create a schedule, or at least a list of things you'd like to do while on vacation.  Map out when you want to go to swimming, hiking, kayaking or skiing.  Creating a schedule will ensure that you don't sit on a couch all vacation!  


6.  Take detours 
On a bike ride?  Try taking a detour and make the activity last just a little bit longer.  This tactic can also be implemented when on a walk or run.  


7.  Go swimming
Don't just sit by the pool all day...dive in!  Swimming works every muscle in the human body and is one of the best exercises during vacation.  Plus, it will feel refreshing.  


8.  Catch up actively
If you want to simply sit down and chat with friends or family while on vacation, why not propose a walk instead?  Walking in the evening can help you burn off those french fries you ate during lunch and you can still catch up with loved ones.  


9.  Wake up early
Get your exercise out of the way in the morning before anybody else wakes up.  Chances are, if you don't work out in the morning while on vacation, you probably won't work out at all.


10. Make reservations 
It's important to make reservations well in advance (we're talking weeks!) when going on vacation. Book your golf reservation, kayaking reservation, tennis reservation and others before going on vacation.  If you don't, you may miss out on these great activities.


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