Treat yourself on vacation, but don't let it get out of hand. The last souvenir you want to bring home is 5 extra pounds. Throwing diet and exercise out the window on vacation can ruin all of your hard-earned progress. But here's the good news - avoiding the "vacation 5" is easier than you think, just follow these tips!
Find accommodations with a kitchen
Skip the buffet and make your own protein-packed breakfast. This will help at least part of your diet stay intact. You can also save money and calories by filling your fridge with an abundance of healthy snack and lunch food options, too.
Eat out once a day
With a kitchen at the ready, there's no reason not to limit your meals out to once a day. After you have decided on where and when to eat out, look up the menu beforehand. Picking out your order ahead of time will keep you from ordering specials and/or appetizers when you arrive. Remember to split large portions and eat your protein first. Protein will satiate you, whereas bread and appetizers will fill you up quickly but leave you looking for a snack later.
Incorporate fun activities to keep you moving
Set a goal to add healthy activities into your agenda for at least one hour a day. Instead of tanning on the beach all day, walk or run on the beach. Schedule active excursions like hiking, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, or windsurfing. Opt for walking as much as possible. Pick a hotel that is close to main attractions; this way you can cancel that Uber and walk there instead.
Hydrate
The active excursions mentioned above will leave you dehydrated. Guzzle water, not booze. Drinking a glass of water before each alcoholic beverage you drink will help you avoid gulping high calorie beverages just because you're thirsty.
Find a gym
Obviously, your best bet for staying on track is having access to a fitness facility onsite. Wake up early and try zumba or a fun new workout class before you hit the beach. It will erase the guilt of eating that big dessert the night before.
Stay away from sugary alcoholic beverages
Vacation is often closely associated with drinking more than usual. When calculating your daily totals, remember to include those liquid calories. Cut back on carbs to make room for the wine and cocktails and avoid the sugary mixers in your alcoholic beverages.
Moderation is key
Don't deprive yourself of trying enjoyable new cuisines. The trick is moderation. Sample all of the mouthwatering treats you want instead of bingeing on them.
You are on vacation after all, so use this time to relax and unwind. You don't need to go overboard with diet and exercise. However, just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you have to ruin all your fitness progress. Remember these simple tips on your next trip and come home feeling relaxed and refreshed!
