Stay Active on Your Next Vacation

This summer I have been volunteering with the American Heart Association as the Communications Intern. Through my experience here I have learned a lot about the importance to living a healthy lifestyle. I have also been exposed to the direct effect staying active has on keeping your heart healthy and happy. During summer vacations and road trips, it can seem very difficult to squeeze in a workout. Vacations are often seen as time to relax and be able to do, and eat, whatever you want. However, your heart health is never on vacation.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate physical activity into your next vacation.

The most obvious way to stay active is to exercise. Almost every hotel you go to will have some sort of gym or workout facility. Even though waking up early while you are on vacation might seem like the last thing you want to do, going to the gym will help get your blood flowing, reduce stress, and keep your heart happy. If there isn’t a gym at your hotel, you can go for a long walk or jog and become more familiar with your destination.

If you don’t have the time, or motivation, to wake up early and work out, another way to make sure you remain active while you’re away is to walk whenever it’s possible. Try to park further away from your destination or take the stairs instead of the elevator to squeeze in some extra steps. Although it may seem small, these efforts will help you maintain an active and healthy mindset and will add up throughout your trip.

Finally, try to incorporate movement into some of your planned activities. Although vacations are viewed as your time to relax, you can still have a great time by being active. For example, if you’re by the ocean, take a break from laying on the beach and try surfing lessons. Or, if you’re vacationing around mountains look for hiking trails nearby.

Physical activity and exercise are extremely important to staying healthy and keeping your heart happy. When you’re packing for your next vacation make sure to pack your sneakers!