So let’s be real here. We understand that there’s some element of debauchery that’s inherent to spring break. Seven consecutive days of drinks, food, and some sleep may be a recipe for an amazing vacation, but it’s also torture for your body. However, there’s no reason why you can’t have fun and stay remotely healthy at the same time (hence our recommendation for healthier drinks).
There may be little time in-between sleeping and partying, but here’s a quick tip to keep your physical and mental self somewhat together. When you finally resurface from the hotel room and stumble bleary-eyed onto the beach, consider doing a quick beach workout to burn off some of those delicious local beverages and late-night snacks. We’ve included a low-key routine, as well one that’s high-energy, so you can choose whichever one you like or switch it up while you’re away. You’ll be surprised to see how fun your local surroundings can be during the daytime too!
Warm-Up:
- Do 25 push ups to get your heart rate up
- Next, do 25 good sit-ups. This will continue to keep your blood pumping as you get started on the main workout.
For a Calm Workout:
Forearm Plank: Return to pushup position, but instead of resting on your hands, rest on your forearms by placing your elbows on the floor and under your shoulders. It’s important to maintain a straight line with your body and to keep your shoulder blades back and down. Tighten your abs and hold this position for 30 seconds.
Mountain Climber: Get into pushup position and keep your body straight and level. Then, lift your right foot and bring your right knee across your body towards your left shoulder. Return your right foot back into its original place so you’re in pushup position once again. This counts as one rep. Alternate legs until you finish 12 reps per leg.
Lunge: Stand with your back straight and take a step forward with your right leg so there’s at least two feet between your feet. Bend your front knee and lower your body, keeping your shin perpendicular to the ground. Push your lower body back up back to starting position—this counts as one rep. Repeat for a total of 8 reps and repeat with your left leg forward. Do this for a total of three times for each leg.
Squat: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Keeping your back straight, slowly bend your knees to a little less than 90 degrees, positioning yourself as though you’re sitting on an imaginary chair. Stay in this pose for two seconds and stand up. Repeat 12 times.
Yoga on the beach is another great way to stay in shape—so try some of these poses too!
For an Intense Workout:
If you’re a strong swimmer and want to make your body work a little harder, try this after your warm-up:
Swim: Go into the water past the breaking waves and swim a couple of hundred yards parallel to the shore. Once you’re done, swim back to shore.
Sprint: After your swim, run quickly back to where you started, and repeat the circuit including your warm-up exercises.
This should only take you about 20 minutes if you complete five circuits.
Relax, have fun and stay healthy!