Let’s face it- we’ve all been there. Best intentions… When packing for travel, whether for business or leisure, we all do the double-take. Do we stuff those sneakers, workout clothes, yoga mats, exercise bands, etc. it into that suitcase? And if packed, do they ever see the light of day?? Well, problem solved. Here’s my new number one, physical therapist (that’s me)-approved travel fitness hack for your next road adventure.
*Silver&Fit sponsored this post. After using their Fit at Home™ program throughout the quarantine and pandemic, I can say I am a true fan. Now that I’m traveling again. Silver&Fit comes with me!! All stated thoughts are my personal and professional impressions. (And always ethical.)
Exercise and Immunity
So many folks have emphasized healthy lifestyles during the pandemic. Additionally, there has been a growing body of evidence linking moderate physical activity and improved wellness. According to a 2019 research review in the Journal of Sport and Health Science, it was concluded that exercise can boost your immune response and thus lower illness risk.
Goodness knows traveling across time zones, disrupted sleep, and increased exposure to others can increase our susceptibility to germs in general.
The BEST Travel Fitness Hack
Though we each have our unique travel scenarios (especially this year), there are shared challenges in our quest for fitness:
- No room in your suitcase to pack workout gear
- Reluctance to use the shared hotel gym
- Unsure if local neighborhoods/trails are safe for running/walking
- Unexpected change in travel plans
- Local climate is not conducive to outdoor activities
Specifically, I’m thinking of the challenges I faced while traveling this past summer. This fall I will be running my first half marathon since the 2020 Key West Half Marathon. Training (aka making up for months on the couch) is front-of-mind, but the obstacles have been many.
Case in point? The 120-degree temperatures endured during our July week in Palm Springs. WHAT TO DO?? Enter my favorite conditioning go-to!
Silver&Fit® Fit at Home OR On the Road
Silver&Fit is an exercise program designed for older adults in all levels of fitness. (And I would argue-adults of all ages.) Its a full array of FREE online classes. The lineup includes:
- Cardio
- Yoga
- Strength/Bodyweight
- Flexibility & Balance
- Mixed Format
- Tai Chi
- Dance
Phew!! And each offers Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced classes taught by a variety of instructors. Silver&Fit truly offers “something for everyone.”
WHERE to Find Silver&Fit
My personal favorite way to enjoy this programming is via Facebook Live. Here you can enter your comments/questions as you participate. Often the Silver&Fit feedback is quite helpful. (Even while on vacation, the views from the International classes- such as this one from Cancun, Mexico- are irresistible!)
You can also join recorded classes on demand via the Silver&Fit Facebook page or YouTube channel. Their full schedule can be found HERE.
HOW to Watch Silver&Fit While Traveling
Worried that finding your favorite Silver&Fit class might be challenging while traveling? Never fear! Reach no farther than your nearest electronic device.
- Smart TV
Good news! Many hotel chains have added Smart TVs and streaming services to their in-room entertainment systems. During our recent stays in Disneyland and Washington, D.C., I was able to tune into the Silver&Fit YouTube channel for my Strength classes.
2. Computer
Our recent room in Omaha, Nebraska was smaller than a closet! Luckily, I have found most of these workouts do not require vast amounts of space. In fact, I LUV their chair workouts!!
3. Cell Phone
So small, in fact, I opted to use the larger bathroom for my next session. My trusty cell phone and stand was the only equipment needed!
No excuses! My half marathon training is on track, despite logging more than 10,000 miles this summer. Silver&Fit is this PT’s BEST Travel Fitness Hack.
I hadn’t heard of Silverfit before! I will definitely check it out!
You really have to- I started using Silver&Fit during the pandemic and now use it ALL the time!
I always have the best intentions of working out on vacation and it never happens. Although, most of our vacations include a LOT of hiking, so that’s a workout in itself. But having one to do that doesn’t require equipment or much space is perfect when in those small hotel rooms.
Well done! Honestly I am so bad with this, especially when I am away.
This sounds like the way I prefer to keep fit. I would much rather be alone and do a programme like this.
I do agree with exercise boosting immunity. Always good to get in as much as you can. I work around exercise when I travel as it isn’t always easy when running around after kids.
We shouldn’t forego our fitness even if we are traveling. This is a great way to sneak in some exercise when we are on a trip.
I love all the options out there when it comes to fitness videos. There are so many workouts that require minimal space and no equipment. I always try to do a little each day.
I have done exactly what you’ve said before and packed workout things but never used them. As I use an app for all of my workouts I feel like I would do them more when away but I’ve not had a chance to try it out yet x
This is brilliant! Working at home is the new norm so I can see myself trying this out. I’m excited to start trying!
This sounds like a fantastic exercise programme and a wonderful way to keep fit whilst travelling! I will definitely be checking it out.
It is nice that you have a strategy for staying fit while you travel. This sounds like a great system.
I love this idea! With this, you can’t have any excuses not to exercise.
You are so inspiring! Love that you can take it with you and there’s such a great variety of classes.
It’s so good to stick to your routine, and these tips are really helpful in that.
This was truly helpful. This is a great way to get fitness on the go!
We have never stayed at a property while vacationing that did not have a fitness center.
Hi Paula!
I have found that increasingly, folks may be reticent to use “fitness centers” that they are unfamiliar with. Safety protocols/ventilation may not be priorities in all facilities. I love not have to worry about any of it by exercising IN my hotel room! Thanks for stopping by~ happy fitness. 😀