Whether it’s for business, vacation, or a weekend getaway, traveling doesn’t have to throw your health and fitness off the rails. With a bit of planning (and some flexibility), you can stay close to your goals while still enjoying the journey. Here’s how I balance travel, fun, and fitness without the guilt.
1. Pack with Intention: Workout Gear & Supplements
If you’re serious about staying active on the road, the first step is to pack for it.
- Bring your gym clothes. You’ll be way more likely to squeeze in a workout if you have the right gear.
- Supplements matter. I usually use a pill divider, but when space is tight (hello, carry-on life!), I just toss them all in one container.
- Shaker cup = travel MVP. Great for mixing your protein AND keeping fruit from getting squished in your bag.
- Don’t forget your protein powders. It helps balance your meals—especially when travel delays or odd eating times hit.
2. Stay Active: Keep Moving Even on the Road
I do my best to stick to my workouts, even if they’re shorter or a little less intense. I usually:
- Hit the hotel gym or get creative with a room workout.
- Add in extra cardio (walking more, taking stairs, etc.) to help offset the less-than-perfect food choices.
Even 20 minutes of movement can make a huge difference in how you feel physically and mentally.
3. Smart Eating on the Go
Balance Is Key
Let’s be real—travel eating isn’t always ideal. That said, I try to keep a balance where I can:
- When you have control: Choose eggs and oatmeal for breakfast, opt for salads or lean protein at lunch, and snack smart.
- When you don’t: Enjoy it, and just balance it out with healthier choices earlier or later in the day.
Bring Your Own Snacks
I’m that person who shows up with a bag of food. But guess what? It works—and sometimes even inspires others.
- I bring rice cakes, peanut butter, fruit, protein bars, and even oats in Ziploc bags.
- Bonus tip: Use the hotel coffee maker and a disposable cup to make oatmeal in the morning!
4. Drink Smart: Stay Hydrated & Social
Travel and social events often come with cocktails. Here’s how you can handle it without overdoing it:
- Always order a glass of water with every adult beverage.
- It slows you down, helps prevent dehydration (and headaches!), and stops you from reaching for another too quickly.
- After one drink, switch to sparkling water with lime—it looks festive, feels social, and keeps you feeling good.
5. Speak Up: Communicate Your Goals
This one took me a while to learn, but it’s powerful:
- Tell your people you’re trying to make healthier choices. More often than not, they respect it—and sometimes they even join in.
- It’s okay to be the one who asks for the healthier option. You’re leading by example.
6. Give Yourself Grace
This is the hardest one for a lot of people.
- If things go off the rails a bit—be honest, but don’t beat yourself up.
- When you’re home, stick to your routine, drink green tea, take epsom salt baths, and stay consistent.
Each day is a new opportunity. Don’t let a few off days turn into a lost season. Just start again.
7. When You Get Home: No Excuses
The moment you’re back?
- Call your gym partner. Book your next class. Set that early alarm.
- The faster you return to your routine, the easier it is to get back on track.
Final Thoughts
Travel doesn’t have to derail your fitness goals. With a little planning, honest communication, and flexibility, you can enjoy your trip and stay aligned with your healthy lifestyle. Be kind to yourself, stay consistent where you can, and remember: your journey won’t be perfect, but it will be worth it.
And if you’re looking for accountability, motivation, and a team of like-minded people who get it, we’ve got you.
Join our fitness community at TEAM IRON elles Personal Training. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, we’re here to support your goals every step of the way.
📩 Reach out to Coach Leanne at info@teamironelles.com to learn more or get started!
Leave a Reply