Relax and Revitalize
Jul 04, 2024Reasons Why Exercising as Little as Twenty Minutes a Day During Vacation Boosts Your Relaxation
Can we talk about something we’ve all pondered over at least once? It’s that age-old debate: to exercise or not to exercise while on vacation. As someone who lives and breathes fitness, I get it. We’ve worked hard all year, and the last thing we might want is to think about workouts when we’re supposed to be relaxing. But is it really too excessive to squeeze in a bit of exercise during our precious time off? Spoiler alert: it’s not only okay, but it’s also super beneficial. Let me tell you why.
First off, let’s acknowledge the obvious – vacations often mean indulging a bit more than usual. Extra desserts, cocktails by the pool, and those delicious local cuisines can add up quickly. According to research, the average person can consume an extra 500 to 1,000 calories per day while on vacation. Yikes! By incorporating just 20 minutes of exercise into your day, you can help balance out those extra calories and keep your metabolism revving. And don’t think this means getting up and going to the gym. Whether it's paddle boarding, swimming, walking on the beach, or kayaking, these activities not only keep you active but also allow you to enjoy your surroundings in a unique and immersive way.
As we know, exercise is a fantastic stress reliever. Vacations are meant to de-stress, right? Engaging in physical activities like a morning beach walk or an adventurous snorkeling session releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that even short bouts of exercise significantly reduce stress and improve mood. If you’ve ever been on a vacation with family, you already know at some point, someone is due for a meltdown. So, by staying active, you’re not only maintaining your fitness but also enhancing your overall vacation experience by keeping stress at bay!
Another major benefit is improved sleep quality. Traveling and adjusting to new time zones can mess with our sleep patterns. Regular physical activity can help regulate your sleep cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. A National Sleep Foundation study showed that people who exercise regularly enjoy better quality sleep compared to those who don’t. Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing, knowing your body is benefiting from a day of physical activity. Bliss, right?
Let’s not forget about energy levels. It might sound counterintuitive, but exercising actually boosts your energy. Activities while on vacation get your blood flowing and your heart pumping, providing a natural energy boost. This can be especially useful when you have a jam-packed itinerary. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular physical activity improves muscle strength and boosts endurance, giving you the stamina to explore more without feeling sluggish.
So, is exercising on vacation excessive? Absolutely not! It’s a wonderful way to maintain balance, relieve stress, improve sleep, and boost energy. Plus, it allows you to explore your vacation destination in fun and active ways. Next time you’re packing for a trip, don’t forget to include something you can be a little more active in. Even a short, 20-minute session can make a world of difference. Stay active, stay healthy, and enjoy every moment of your vacation.
Xo,
Coach Tatiana
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