Some may think that the words ‘exercise’ and ‘holiday’ should never be used in the same sentence—and I totally get that, but for me personally, I feel a million times better when I start the day with some sort of movement (especially when you’re in a bikini 90% of the time and eating all the food).
Now I’m definitely not suggesting that you go ahead and set your alarm for 5am every morning to get up and go for a run (God no), what I’m saying is that if you are trying to stay on top of your health and fitness goals, there are a few easier ways you can do just that.
Here’s how I tried to remain *relatively* fit during my last Greek Island escape, so I could devour kilos of saganaki cheese without feeling too guilty about it.
Because, balance—right?
1. Hit the gym
Most hotels nowadays have a gym, which makes exercising a heck of a lot easier whilst travelling. A few boutique style hotels we stayed at however, didn’t—in which case my fiancé and I would just go to a local gym and pay for casual passes. On some mornings, we would even walk to the gym, do our workout and walk back. Too keen?
2. Take the stairs
One thing that I love/hate about the Greek Islands is that there are just SO many stairs. Tackling a set of stairs works up a serious sweat and gets your heart racing like nothing else. I gave myself 10 second breaks in between each run–because let’s be real, I probably would’ve collapsed otherwise because of the heat too many wines.
3. Pack a skipping rope
Did you know that just 10 minutes of skipping is equivalent to a 30 minute run and burns more than 10 calories per minute? Yep. Not only is this a great piece of equipment to use at the gym or outdoors, skipping ropes fold up to virtually nothing and fits nicely in your suitcase (so you can save room for more important things, like all your cute outfits).
4. Download a fitness app
SWEAT and Centr are two of my go-to’s. The beauty of workouts like Kayla Itsines’ BBG program on SWEAT is that they’re only 28 minutes, and once you’re done, you’re done and ready to take on the day. Plus, you get access to a variety of different workouts and trainers without the need for equipment.
5. Go for a swim
Incidental exercise is one of the easiest ways to burn a few extra cheeky calories whilst on holidays—and between infinity pools and endless strips of beaches with crystal clear waters, to say that you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to taking a morning dip is an understatement.
6. Walk it off
One thing I’ve come to learn is to not underestimate the power of walking! Fitness experts will tell you that all you need is 20 minutes of brisk walking a day to reap its many benefits—plus there’s no better way to explore different places than on foot (and work on your tan at the same time!).
