If working out on vacation is non-negotiable for you, welcome to the club. Whether you're a fitness fanatic or just someone who likes to keep moving, squeezing in a sweat session while traveling doesn’t have to feel like a chore—even if your "gym" is the tiny space between the hotel bed and the mini-fridge. The key? A smart, adaptable plan that doesn’t rely on fancy equipment or a ton of time. That’s where Danielle Pascente, a certified personal trainer and fitness guru, comes in. She’s all about making movement feel good, no matter where you are.
Why Working Out on Vacation Actually Rocks
physically and mentally—so you can actually enjoy your trip. Pascente puts it perfectly: "Movement should be a celebration, not a sentence." A quick workout can boost energy, reduce jet lag, and even help you sleep better in an unfamiliar bed. Plus, let’s be real, fitting into your vacation outfits without the dreaded "bloat struggle" is a nice bonus.
The No-Equipment, Anywhere Workout Blueprint
Pascente’s go-to travel workout is all about simplicity. You don’t need weights or resistance bands (though they’re great if you have them). Instead, focus on bodyweight moves that target multiple muscle groups. Think: squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks. "Your body is the best piece of equipment you’ll ever own," she says. For a killer 20-minute routine, try alternating between 45 seconds of work and 15 seconds of rest for each exercise. Repeat the circuit twice, and boom—you’re done. No gym required, no excuses accepted.
How to Sneak in Movement Without Missing Out
Vacations are for exploring, so why not make your sightseeing active? Pascente recommends ditching cabs or Ubers when possible and walking instead. "You’ll see more of the city, and your step count will thank you," she says. If you’re near water, swim. Hiking trails? Take advantage. Even hitting the hotel stairs for a few rounds counts. The goal isn’t to replicate your usual gym session but to stay consistent in a way that complements your trip. Pro tip: Schedule workouts for mornings when you’re less likely to bail (looking at you, 3 p.m. poolside mojito temptation).
Handling the "Why Are You Working Out on Vacation?" Haters
Not everyone will understand your commitment to fitness, and that’s okay. Pascente’s advice? Own it. "You do you, unapologetically," she says. If your travel crew gives you side-eye, remind them that this is your version of fun. Or, better yet, invite them to join—they might surprise themselves. And if they don’t? No sweat (pun intended). A solo workout can be a great way to recharge, especially if you’re traveling with a high-energy group or kids.
Recovery: The Secret Sauce to Sustainable Travel Fitness
Travel workouts shouldn’t leave you so sore that you can’t enjoy your trip. Pascente emphasizes recovery just as much as the workout itself. Stretching, foam rolling (a tennis ball works in a pinch), and staying hydrated are crucial. "Your muscles are already stressed from travel—long flights, weird sleeping positions—so be kind to them," she says. If you’re feeling extra achy, swap a high-intensity day for yoga or a long walk. Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint—even on vacation.
At the end of the day, working out on the road is about balance. Whether you’re doing a full-blown hotel-room HIIT session or just opting for the stairs instead of the elevator, every bit counts. As Pascente says, "Fitness should fit into your life, not the other way around." So pack those sneakers, embrace the movement, and enjoy every minute of your trip—guilt-free.
