Road trips are a great way to explore the country with your friends or family. Unfortunately, spending a lot of time in the car can be detrimental to your health if you are not careful. Here are the eight best ways to stay in shape when traveling on a road trip.
1- Go for a Morning Run
You can get in a good workout before hitting the road by taking a quick morning run. Map out the run the night before so you know exactly where you are going when you wake up. Not only will this help burn off some calories, but it will also make you more awake for the long drive.
2- Use Hotel Fitness Centers
A large number of hotels throughout the country offer a free fitness center to their guests. These rooms are generally equipped with a few treadmills and some dumbbells, which are perfect for a quick workout after a long day of driving.
3- Visit a Local Gym
If you want a more intense workout than can be provided at the hotel fitness center, then you can always visit a local gym in the area. You can use your existing membership if you belong to a gym with locations throughout the country. You can also just opt to get a daily pass at the gym closest to your destination.
4- Exercise in the Car
You can make the most of your long day sitting in the car by doing a few exercises to get the blood pumping. Squeezing a tennis ball, tightening your core, and knee lifts can all be done in a car. Just make sure to only do them when you are not driving.
5- Take a Swim
Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise because it burns a lot of calories without putting much stress on the body. You should not have a problem finding a hotel with a pool no matter where you are going. Most hotel pools are only available during certain hours so jump in the water right after checking into your room.
6- Walk Around Rest Stops
In order to stay fit during a road trip, you need to utilize rest stops for more than just a quick bathroom break. Take a 10 to 15-minute walk around the rest area every time you stop. This is a great way to get the blood flowing without adding too much time to your trip.
7- Pick Active Attractions
Visiting fun attractions for the first time is one of the best parts about taking a long road trip. Picking the right attractions can do wonders for your health. Exploring the zoo requires a lot more walking than stopping at a local brewery.
8- Avoid Unhealthy Snacks
It can be hard to resist the urge to snack in the car during a road trip. If you cannot avoid the temptation, then make sure to make healthy choices when picking up snacks at the gas station. Opt for a bottle of water and a granola bar instead of a large soda and chips.
