Staying active while traveling
Sunrise Starts, Creativity, and Consistency
Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, offering a chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and break from routine. But it’s also easy to fall out of healthy habits while on the go. Staying active while traveling doesn’t have to feel like a chore—it can actually enhance your experience and help you feel your best.
Start Your Day with a Sunrise Adventure
There’s something magical about waking up with the sun, especially in an unfamiliar place. Kicking off your first morning with a sunrise hike or walk not only sets a positive tone for the trip but also helps your body adjust to a new time zone. The gentle movement wakes up your muscles and mind, while being immersed in nature can boost your mood and reduce stress.
[Stargaze Yurt to Beaver Creek Summit in Lowman, Idaho]
Whether it’s a trail through the mountains, a stroll along the beach, or a walk through a city park, starting your day outdoors is a grounding way to connect with your surroundings while staying active. Plus, exploring new places on foot lets you discover hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
[Torrey Pines Beach and Broken Hill Loop in San Diego, California]
Be Prepared: Pack for Movement
Traveling light doesn’t mean you have to skip your workouts. A resistance band takes up almost no space in your luggage and can be used for full-body strength and activation exercises. For added creativity, use a towel as a slider for exercises like lunges or mountain climbers on smooth floors.
Incorporating movement doesn’t require a gym or fancy equipment—it’s about using what’s around you. A park bench can become the perfect set up for step ups, elevated push ups, or even core movements. With a little imagination, your environment becomes your workout partner.
The Importance of Staying Active
It’s no secret that movement makes us feel good. Regular exercise supports your energy levels, keeps your mind sharp, and helps maintain a sense of normalcy, even during the busiest trips. But it’s also important to remember that muscle strength and endurance can start to decline after just a few days of inactivity.
Maintaining muscle and mobility while traveling ensures you stay ready for whatever adventures await, whether it’s hiking, sightseeing, or simply keeping up with your itinerary. Even 15–20 minutes of intentional movement a day can help you stay consistent and feel good.
Stay Consistent, Feel Empowered
Traveling is about breaking routines, but that doesn’t mean abandoning healthy habits. By weaving activity into your travel plans, you’re setting yourself up for success. Whether it’s waking up early for a walk, getting creative with strength exercises in your hotel room, or simply staying active during your adventures, movement becomes part of the journey—not something you have to carve out time for.
[Desert Ridge Hike in Rancho Mirage, California]
So, pack your bands, lace up your shoes, and embrace the opportunity to move in new and exciting ways. Because staying active while traveling isn’t just about maintaining fitness—it’s about enhancing your experiences, feeling empowered, and returning home with memories of adventures both big and small.
Remember, consistency is key, and the effort you put into staying active will always be worth it. Happy travels and happy moving!
[Lopa Beach in Lanai, Hawaii]
Check out my Starting Strength Program if you travel often and want a plan to help you stay consistent!
If you’d like personalized guidance on how to incorporate fitness into your travels, contact me at sky.stillings@gmail.com. Let’s keep you moving—no matter where life takes you!
