We’ve all been there - excited for a holiday or weekend away but also worried about how to stay on track with fitness while on the go. Travelling from place to place can easily throw off your routine, especially when long flights, endless meals out and jam-packed schedules are in the mix.
But not to worry, we’re here to help!
In this guide, we share practical, no-excuse tips to keep you active no matter where you are or how little time you have.
But first, why is it important to stay fit and active while on your travels?
The Importance of Staying Fit While Travelling
Staying active while travelling or on holiday isn’t just about maintaining your gym gains (although for many this is important) - it’s about feeling your best so you can fully enjoy your trip.
When you move your body, even if it’s just a quick 15 minute walk or Pilates routine, you naturally boost your energy, improve your mood, and fight off that sluggish feeling that comes from a long flight or too much lounging around.
What’s more, regular movement boosts your immune system, helping you fight off colds, fatigue, and travel-related stress. And as travelling around exposes you to new environments, climates, and germs, it’s more important than ever to have a strong immune system while abroad.
How to Stay Fit and Active While Travelling: 5 Simple Tips
As touched on at the beginning of the blog, travelling is all about adventure and having fun, but it can also throw off your fitness routine between the flights, busy itinerary and heavy meals. It’s only natural that staying active isn’t at the top of your list.
The good news? You don’t need a gym or fancy equipment to keep moving your body!
Here are 5 simple tips to stay fit while enjoying your trip:
Walk as Much as You Can
One of the easiest ways you can keep yourself fit and active while travelling is to walk everywhere!
Instead of grabbing an Uber or hopping on a bus, consider walking to nearby destinations instead (as long as they’re within walking distance and safe, of course!). Not only does this keep you moving, but you’ll also be able to explore your surroundings in a more immersive way that you wouldn’t be able to do in a car - it’s a win, win!
And if your itinerary includes a lot of sightseeing, opt for walking tours or self-guided city strolls to naturally increase your step count.
Pack a Foldable Travel Mat
A foldable travel mat is one of the best investments for helping you to stay active on the go. Unlike some bulky yoga mats on the market, these mats are lightweight, compact, and easy to pack in your suitcase or backpack.
Having your own mat with you wherever you go allows you to stay consistent with workouts, whether it's simple stretching or Pilates, without relying on a gym. You can even take it to the beach!
If you’re looking for a high-quality foldable travel mat, we got you! Check out our range of anti-slip Pilates mats, made with a non-toxic thick rubber layer which firmly absorbs the ground to prevent any curling or movement in the mat. Available in 3 designs - Lavendar, Sunset Pink and Green Suede.
This leads us nicely on to point number 3…
Do Bodyweight Workouts
The beauty of bodyweight exercises is that they require zero equipment, meaning you can work out absolutely anywhere!
A great travel-friendly workout can include bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, planks, burpees, and mountain climbers, which all engage multiple muscle groups, help maintain muscle tone, and get your heart rate up.
Another popular low-impact way to keep your body moving while travelling is doing Pilates. It strengthens your core, improves flexibility, and enhances posture - all without requiring heavy equipment. All you need is a Pilates mat and perhaps some Pilates non-slip socks… simple!
Hire an Online Personal Trainer Coach
Talking of workouts, if you’re the type of person who thrives with guidance and accountability, hiring an online personal trainer coach could be an excellent way to stay fit while travelling.
So, whether you want to maintain strength, lose weight or improve flexibility, a personal trainer can provide tailored routines that you can do anywhere, whether it’s in your hotel room, outdoors, or even on a layover at an airport.
Online Personal Training at She's Different
Our online coaching is designed to be as effective as in-person sessions, with customised plans, accountability, and the guidance you need to stay motivated and consistent. This is the perfect solution for women who aren’t local but want expert coaching, or perhaps busy mums looking for flexible and accessible support.
Enquire about our online personal training here.
Do Your Stretches
Last but certainly not least - do your stretches!
Travelling from place to place often means long hours of sitting and lounging around in one place - whether it’s on a plane, train, car, or even at a desk during a work trip. And this can leave your muscles feeling pretty stiff and tight.
Stretching, however, is a simple yet powerful way to keep your body feeling loose and improve circulation while you’re on the go. Learn more about the importance of stretching, here.
It only takes a few minutes each day, but it can make a big difference in how you feel throughout your trip, so don’t forget it!
Check out our Pilates & fitness blog for more expert insight into all things fitness and Pilates, where you can find articles such as ‘How often you should do Pilates’ and ‘Can I still do Pilates while pregnant?’.
And if you’d like to book a class with us, head over to our bookings page.
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