The assignment getaway can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a nemesis to your exercise regimen and easily mix up your healthy lifestyle and exercise routine. When moving to different locations several times a year, good habits are hard to keep. Traveling to a new work environment, to an unknown geography and adjusting to a new work schedule all contribute to the challenge of maintaining an exercise routine while on contract. Many travelers find that incorporating an exercise routine during their travel assignment is the best way to rejuvenate while settling in to their new assignment location. This can be difficult if you don’t have access to weightlifting equipment or if you don’t have a good workout space. Here are a few simple ideas you can follow to help incorporate a healthy exercise routine on the road.
- Research the area before arriving. Find out if there is an exercise facility available in the area. Contact professional gyms and inquire about short term memberships or evening and weekend passes that may be available to you. With a pass like this, you can have full access to a workout facility while on your contract.
- Plan out your schedule ahead of time. The best time to schedule an aerobic activity is in the morning. Waking up 30 minutes earlier and incorporating a quick aerobic exercise routine can greatly increase the energy you carry through the day. If mornings aren’t convenient, working in a 30-minute routine sometime during the day will leave you feeling energized.
- Pack equipment that will help you build in an exercise routine while on the road if possible. While you may not be able to feasibly pack heavy weights, a pair of lightweight dumbbells can be beneficial.
- There are several bodyweight exercises that you can do if traveling with weights is not an option. For example, try pushups, squats, lunges, planks, and crunches. Be creative and think about ways to exercise without workout equipment. If you don’t have access to a workout facility or swimming pool, use hallways and staircases as a walking track.
- Find a partner and make workout plans together throughout the contract. Working out in pairs or groups is much more fun and a more effective way to ensure you don’t put off your planned exercise routine. This will help you stay accountable and ensure that you follow through with your exercise program throughout the assignment.
- Do sightseeing and tourist activities that require aerobic activity. Choose walking or cycling tours rather than the bus tour for a good calorie burn. Plan your days off around outdoor actives such as hiking, cycling, mountain climbing or even all-day shopping.
Travelers settling into a new assignment in an unfamiliar location can easily let go of their healthy exercise habits. These are just a few ideas that can help as you adjust to your new location. As you plan and prepare for your next exciting contract adventure, make continuing your exercise routine in your new location part of your checklist.
Keri Janousek is a Team Lead for the Therapy division of Aureus Medical Group.