Jun 6

Written by: queenjaneen
6/6/2008 3:35 PM

Vacation Shockers: 5 Tips to Keep You Fit
By Brian Dzubinski


Vacations are a wonderful time to get away from it all. A cruise, a camping trip or even a trip to visit the family for the holidays…an opportunity to take yourself miles away from your average routine.

But did you know that the average person gains almost a pound a day while on vacation?

That’s right!  Lazy vacation days usually lead to one dreaded thing: extra pounds.  As you embark on your next vacation adventure keep the following tips in mind and come home fitter than when you left!

Tip #1:  Be Active
If your travels keep you too busy for a workout, or if your hotel does not have an exercise room, make a conscious effort to be active everyday.  Go on a brisk walk after your day’s activities.  This is a great way to see a new city, play with the kids, and also serves as a great way to burn off that rich dinner you just ate!

Tip #2:  Indulge with Control
Eating out is a must while on vacation.  Whether you’re visiting a 5 star restaurant or fast food diners, you are faced with the same problem: large portions.  While the easiest thing to do is to eat it all because after all you are on vacation…right?  However, that isn’t the best for your waistline!

When you order your meal either ask for a box to place half of the food in it for later or simply ask for smaller, healthier portions.  If it is a Thanksgiving feast we are talking about RELAX; there will be plenty of leftovers later so there is no need to over indulge with this one meal.

Tip #3:  Snack Healthy
Have you ever noticed how travel days create the perfect opportunity for snacking?  A coffee and muffin before your flight, a snack on the plane and then before you know it-it’s lunch time!  Taking a road trip?  This opens up even more opportunities for regrettable snacking…rest stop vending machines, gas station quickie marts and of course the never ending string of fast food restaurants along the highway.

This vacation cut unhealthy snacking off at the pass by bringing your own healthy options.  Dried or fresh fruit, unsalted nuts, health bars, cut veggies and low fat crackers are all a good start.  By filling up on healthy choices you will be less likely to indulge with a less-than-healthy meal.

Tip #4:  Avoid Fried Foods
While fast food is definitely convenient, with their low prices and quick service, this convenience is not worth the additional stomach fat.  While avoiding fried foods is always good advice it is especially important when on vacation due to all of the extra eating and lack of exercise.  Opt for the baked potato instead of the fries or a small side salad with your burger or chicken sandwich.  You can still eat at these places but make smart choices.

If I still haven’t convinced you remember that heartburn and indigestion are never fun…especially while on vacation or driving in a confined space with family!

Tip #5:  Team up with a Pro
Team up with your local fitness expert to help you reach your fitness goals before you go on vacation so you can travel with less guilt.

Brian Dzubinski, B.S. CSCS, is the owner of BEAT Personal Training in Florence, Kentucky, a private personal training center located on US 42.  Brian can be reached at 513-319-0188 or by visiting www.beatpersonaltraining.com.
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