Keeping Your Cool
Looking forward to your vacation, but concerned that you'll lose any progress you've made and — horrors — gain weight? Don't worry. Here's what you need to do.
Be realistic. You're about to take a vacation, and a vacation from your workout schedule is as beneficial as a vacation from work and household chores. So, give yourself permission to enjoy yourself and lounge for a little while. Even with a few days off, you won't lose any strength or cardio gains you've made. However, after a few weeks, the story changes.
Figure out how you are going to get some exercise at some point, especially if you're on a long vacation. Don't try to mimic your workout exactly; it's rare to be somewhere with the same equipment or walking paths. Instead, be creative and open to options. If you typically walk, you might need to ride the stationary cycle in the fitness room. If you usually use free weights, you might be able to figure out how to use the weight-training station in the fitness room.
On vacation, you won't be an active person (well, not most likely), but you can enjoy and watch sports, which is very inspirational. You might want to attend the Olympic Games or Olympic Trials, the Boston Marathon, Ironman Triathlons, the Special Olympics, or the Tour de France.
Think about your diet. Do not, under any circumstances, refuse to enjoy a treat or have a snack. Eating well is not about deprivation; it is about balance and moderation. So recognize that you're going to enjoy some special desserts or an afternoon of chips in front of the TV, and enjoy it while it's happening. Then go back to your regular, healthy, fitness-oriented life.
