Sometimes, we go on holiday wanting nothing more than to lie by the pool or on the beach sipping cocktails. We want to sample all of the local delicacies and let our fitness levels slide. We work hard, we deserve a break, and we’re happy to take it.
But, not always. You might be keen to try a more active holiday. To take a break that doesn’t mean that your work clothes will be a little tight around the middle when you get home, or that your 5k time will have gone up by a few minutes. You might be eager for a holiday that boosts your fitness, tones your tummy and increases your strength. These holidays can still be great fun and relaxing in their own way, and you’ll get something completely different out of them.
Visit a Yoga Retreat
Yoga retreats are about much more than fitness. You’ll meet new people, practice meditation, learn to manage your stress and even learn to feed your body what it needs to be strong and healthy. Oh, and you’ll learn, or improve your yoga skills, improving your strength, posture and circulation.
Yoga retreats aren’t just for advanced yogis either. It can be the perfect way to get started on your yoga journey.
Take a Big Challenge
Have you ever wondered how far is it from Lands End to John o Groats? Why not get a bike and cycle it? You could also go on a big walking holiday, or climb a mountain. Completing a challenge like this is exceptionally rewarding, a big fitness boost, and thanks to all of the training beforehand, a way to make a real change to your health and well-being.
Hit the Slopes
Skiing or snowboarding is excellent exercise, especially if it’s not something that you are used to and you’ll be really pushing your body in a new way. To make the most of your trip, get some practise in beforehand, and try yoga. To help improve your balance on the slopes.
Pack Your Walking Shoes
Walking on holiday is one of the best ways to boost your fitness or at least burn off any extra calories that you might be enjoying while you are away. Pack some comfortable shoes and walk around your destination. Explore the local area on foot, pounding the pavements. You’ll see more, you’ll meet more people, and you might even get a more authentic view of local life, instead of missing it all while you are on the bus or in a taxi.
Go for a Spa Break
Spa breaks are wonderfully relaxing and a great way to unwind. But at most spas, you’ll also have access to gym facilities, fitness classes and a pool. You might actually do more exercise than you would on a less relaxing holiday, as you fit some exercise into your break and make the most of the facilities on offer. You want to get your money’s worth after all.
Exercise Your Mind
Your body isn’t the only thing that needs a workout. Whatever you do, and wherever you go, spend some time exercising your mind by visiting places of cultural interest, learning language and history, meditation, reading around the pool and expelling any negativity.
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