One of the issues I am constantly struggling with is staying healthy when I travel. It is so easy to eat badly, drink a lot of wine, and let work get in the way of working out. I get reader questions about this too, and I have discussed it with fellow travelers, so I know it’s not just me! Recently, an article came out from MSNBC Travel that addresses this issue. Some key take-aways:
- Sites such as HotelGymReview use “user generated reviews” that let travelers know where the best facilities are. Run.com gives information on safe running trails in different cities.
- Sheraton hotels offer free “gym in a bag” kits that include a mat, stretch rope, and other items. Some Westin hotels have exercise equipment in selected guest rooms. Kimpton hotels offer guests a yoga kit at check-in.
- Exercise TV content is available in hotels all over the place, including Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt. There are also podcasts for yoga and other workouts.
Obviously it’s never going to be easy, but if you have a commitment to maintaining your workout routine in spite of a harried and hectic travel schedule, there are ways to do it. Good luck, and stay active!
I struggle with this as well. About two years ago I started a 10-month weekly commute from Dallas to Detroit. I put on about 15 pounds in the first few months of that experience. Although I have traveled frequently, that was my first really long-term assignment. The problem was that I was going out to dinner with colleagues every night, eating a lot there and not finding time to exercise (I am not a morning person). I started instead leaving work, having a light evening snack, spending a couple of hours in my room working or reading, and then going to the gym around 8 or 9 after my food had settled. That was a much better routine for me health-wise and I did try to go out with people from work once every week or two just to keep from being too antisocial.