Traveling is one of the greatest joys of retirement; something many retirees look forward to doing now that they’ve got the time. Whether you’re exploring new cities, visiting family, or relaxing on a cruise, staying active while traveling can benefit your experience and help you maintain your health.
Long flights, unfamiliar routines, and indulgent meals can take a toll on the body, especially after a while. With the right approach, you can keep your fitness and energy levels up no matter where you are.
Boomer Benefits – retirement advice often emphasizes the importance of staying active as you age, and this applies just as much on the road as it does when you’re at home. Here are practical fitness tips for senior travelers looking to stay active while making the most of their journeys.
Plan for Movement in Your Itinerary
One of the easiest ways to stay active while traveling is to incorporate movement into your plans. If you can avoid relying solely on taxis or public transportation, consider things like taking the stairs or signing up for a walking tour where you can see the sights and get some exercise in.
Activities that involve physical activity, such as hiking, swimming, or kayaking, provide fitness benefits and allow you to check off a fun activity during your travels.
Stretch and Move
Sitting for extended periods can make your body stiff and uncomfortable. While traveling, these long periods of stillness happen whether on a plane, train, or car ride.
Always get some stretches in before, during and after traveling. Simple stretches can improve your circulation and help reduce tightness. Short walks up and down the aisle are another way to keep the blood flowing.
Whatever the case, use any breaks at stops or rest areas to recuperate your body before the next stint.
Pack Travel-Friendly Fitness Gear
Fitting some exercise into your schedule on the road is easier when you bring a few lightweight essentials. Something as simple as a resistance band or comfortable walking/running shoes can make a big difference. These items take up little space and allow you to achieve your fitness goal for the day.
Take Advantage of Hotel Amenities
Many hotels offer amenities that can help you stay fit and healthy. Fitness centers, pools, nearby walking paths, and buffets or restaurants with healthy food choices can help keep your body in a healthy routine.
Choosing Healthy Meals and Staying Hydrated
It’s easy to get dehydrated while traveling, especially if you’re the type to try and do and see as much as you can each day. If you’re not careful, dehydration can lead to fatigue and muscle cramps. A good way to drink water regularly is by carrying a refillable water bottle that you can sip on throughout the day.
Another setback travelers sometimes face is eating nutritious meals while away from home. It’s easy to overindulge in all the good food this new place has to offer, but it doesn’t all have to be junk. You can still choose meals rich in protein and healthy fats and incorporate fruits and vegetables daily to keep energy levels stable.
Try Gentle Exercises
Traveling can be exhausting, but gentle movements can help prevent stiffness and soreness. Consider activities like yoga or tai chi. Plenty of destinations offer classes, or you can follow a short routine online in your hotel room.
If available, a quick massage or a travel-sized foam roller can relieve muscle tension, especially after a long day of walking and sightseeing.
Get Plenty of Rest
Physical activity is important, but so is rest. Traveling (and the infamous jet lag that can come with it) is known to throw off your sleep schedule, so try to remember to keep a consistent schedule as much as possible to avoid further sleep troubles. Eye masks and earplugs can help block out any distractions preventing you from getting restful sleep, too, especially if your body is having a hard time adjusting to the temporary yet unfamiliar sleeping environment.
Make Fitness a Fun Part of Your Travels
Staying active while traveling doesn’t have to feel like a nuisance. Whether you’re wandering through a historic city, relaxing on the beach, or road-tripping across the country, these minor adjustments keep you feeling strong and energized to be ready for whatever comes next.
Incorporate these tips into your itinerary, knowing you can enjoy your adventures without sacrificing your health.
