Tips for Planning a Relaxing Vacation

When you’re on vacation, breaking away from the daily grind doesn’t have to mean abandoning your fitness routine. In fact, travel offers a unique opportunity to explore movement in new ways. Staying active on the road is about adaptability, intention, and finding activities that bring you joy. Train Purpose Driven personal trainer and coach Jada McNamara shares her expert advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle while traveling. “Maintaining fitness goals while on vacation is easier than people think,” McNamara says. You don’t need to hit the gym for an hour every day that you’re away. Instead, prioritize getting your steps in, staying hydrated, and eating nutrient-dense foods. “Walking is one of the most underrated forms of exercise,” McNamara says, explaining that it’s both gentle on the body and effective. “At the airport, I take extra walking laps, sometimes with my bags to increase the challenge.” In your hotel room, she recommends bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, and core work. Plus, she advises planning ahead and packing a few small but effective workout tools: resistance bands, a jump rope, and a TRX Suspension Trainer. Many vacation activities can also double as exercise, or at least movement, she says. “Biking, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even shopping— everything adds up.”

Vacations often involve opulent meals, from fine dining experiences to the cruise’s bottomless pasta bar, which can feel counterproductive to staying healthy. But not digging in feels counterproductive to the vacation vibe. McNamara budgets for this. “Leading up to a big meal, I save some calories, drink plenty of water, and prioritize protein and nutrient-dense foods.” She balances her approach, choosing a few dinners to order indulgently and others where she opts for lighter options.

“I’ve found that when I try to be overly strict and restrict myself, it often backfires, leading to burnout or frustration,” McNamara says. “Instead, I focus on building habits that feel sustainable and enjoyable. Life is meant to be lived, and health is about finding a balance that allows you to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.”…Read more by Sahale Greenwood