Escaping the winter chill for a holiday? Read these tips for staying active.

Health and Fitness

Winter is well and truly upon us. So what better way to celebrate than by booking a holiday somewhere hot and tropical (or cold and frosty if that’s your thing)?

If you’re lucky enough to be taking a break to escape or embrace the winter chill, it doesn’t mean your exercise routine needs to be kicked to the curb. A little more preparation may be required but keeping active on your holidays can be easy (and fun).

Holidays are a great time to mix up your usual routine and try new things. Once you know where you’re going be sure to research your surroundings to see what you’ve got to work with nearby. And my number one tip - write down how you plan to stay active while you’re away.

If it’s important for you to stick to your current routine make sure you’ll have access to any potential equipment you need.

Are you staying somewhere with a gym? Is there a pool to swim laps in? Are there safe walking or running tracks nearby? But if you’re looking for different ways to keep moving then research what activities you can incorporate into your day that mean you’ll be active, having fun and sightseeing, all at the same time.

Activities you could consider on your winter holiday (destination dependent):

Explore local bushwalking tracks and trails.
Water activities like snorkelling, kayaking or learning to surf classes.
Hire bikes and spend a day exploring.
Play golf (just don’t hire a cart – make walking part of the fun).
Hire some racquets and try your hand at tennis.
Yoga or pilates classes are often open to taking new clients for one-off visits.
If you’re travelling with kids you have a perfect excuse for some outdoor running or ball games.

If you’re planning to take it easy you could simply start every morning with a long walk, taking a different route each day to explore your surroundings. And while it’s tempting to put your feet up altogether when you’re on holidays, remember that keeping active will help give you energy, potentially reduce stress and keep those extra holiday calories in check.

New Zealand’s Eating and Activity Guidelines recommend adults do at least 2½ hours of moderate or 1¼ hours of vigorous physical activity spread throughout the week (as well as some strength training on two days), so keep this in mind when you’re away. But most importantly remember to pack your exercise gear, headphones and have fun!

KATE MAYHEW

Kate Mayhew is a journalist and fitness enthusiast, currently embarking on a new career in the fitness industry. She is studying a Certificate III in Fitness through the Personal Training Academy.

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Fitness Holiday Sport

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