Simple Rules for Staying in Shape on Vacation

Every year my goal for vacation is to relax, enjoy time with family, have fun and to have not completely blown my fitness/eating goals. It may be different for some, but for me, no vacation is worth weight gained. With all of the hard-work I’ve accomplished, it’s not something I’m interested in. So, how can you enjoy vacation without packing on the pounds? 

Here are the TWO, yes only two,  simple rules I follow. Following these rules can keep you on track or even continuing the weight-loss momentum.
1. One Out of Three: One out of three of my meals can be an indulgence. It’s the one meal where I order something I’d never order while home – no guilt, dessert, included! I usually save it for dinner, but if you’re going out to a great breakfast or brunch, that works, too! The other meals, I keep in line with what I usually do – fruits, veggies, protein and LOTS of water!  It can be very easy to adopt the, “but I’m on vacation” mentality. If weight gain is not a concern of yours, go for it. But if you want to keep the pounds off, you cannot use every meal as an opportunity to indulge. Plan lots of fun stuff, so you’re not even thinking about snacking or indulging all day.

2. Get the Exercise In, EVERY DAY: No gym needed on this – but walking on vacation is a great way to exercise. And yes, walking to the beach lugging toys, kids, chairs and umbrellas does count. Just make sure you’re fitting one activity a day for at least 30 minutes. I find this fairly easy to do – from a walk on the beach after dinner, jogging, a scenic hike or swimming. If you find yourself with some time, you can also do a series of simple floor exercises –  pushups, planks, lunges or squats. Done in 15 minutes! Easy. 

Bottom line, enjoy your vacation. Sure, it may not be your best week for eating, fitness or activity, but your body needs the break, too! But these simple steps will help keep you from overdoing it so you’re ready to get back into things quickly when you return!

Do you indulge on vacations or try to limit yourself? What ways do you keep the pounds off on vacation or are all bets off?