Try a workout in every country you wander to
BY PHILL FELTHAM
You won’t find many travelers who’ll claim pride for working out in every country he or she visits. I’m proud of this claim, but that’s because I’m bizarre. The average traveler just wants to sit back, relax and explore their new surroundings without the “chore” workout. However for the interested or active traveler, or fitness enthusiast these tips might of be of some use to you.
WALK: I lost 25 pounds touring Taiwan’s capital, Taipei. Then I lost another eight pounds during my two week travel journey to South Korea and China. Eating right had something to do with it, but it was more the constant walking.
Most sights in China like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall Of China are large enough that the walk is enough to shed the pounds. Instead of taking a taxi or the transit to the short stops, walk, especially if most sights are a short distance. You’ll go back home a lot happier.
EAT RIGHT: The beauty of visiting new countries, especially in Asia, the food contains a lot less additives and calories then their Western counterparts. Take this advantage and try out all the healthy foods. You obviously owe it to yourself to try at least one sugary food, but don’t overdo it.
HOTEL EXERCISES: Many hotels usually have places to workout. Hit the gym at least twice on your vacation. If there is simply not enough time, some crunches and push ups in your hotel room coupled with some stretching should get the blood circulating.
STRETCH: If push ups or ab crunches aren’t your thing, try stretching. At least, give yourself fifteen minutes to give yourself a full-body stretch. It requires very little effort and it’s refreshing as having a cup of morning coffee. Your legs and back will no doubt thank you, especially after the previous day’s journey.
BIKE: I never did this while venturing, but many travelers like to bike around cities, especially if the distance between sights are too far of a walk.
BACK PACK: Not all travelers are backpackers, but I can tell you, there is nothing more satisfying then throwing a back pack on my shoulders and venturing into the great unknown without the protection and comfort of a tour bus.
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING: Many countries, like Taiwan, have mountains that active travelers always explore. Take some UV lotion, bug spray, and some warm clothes and with a friend give yourself the ultimate body workout while taking in the mountain side cool air.
ROLLER BLADING: Here is an alternative to biking. If you can find some roller blades, use those to get to and from the sights faster.
There are tons of other ways to get active while traveling. Water and winter sports, extreme sports, and tons of sports. If you fancy it, have fun. IT!
Phill Feltham is the Senior Editor of an international fitness magazine. He is also the Publisher of The Weekly Wanderer and Co-CEO of Open Reel Entertainment.
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