How to stay fit when traveling

January 2nd 2008

It's the beginning of a new year, and I have this huge feeling it's going to be good. Like millions of others in this world, the first on your list of resolutions, is of course, you guessed it, workout more. Here are 5 ways to keep the workout spirit alive when traveling.

1. Walk it out. Nine out of ten times you find yourself waking up a lot earlier than normal when you're on vacation or traveling. I say take advantage of it and go out for a nice stroll. First, ask the front desk if where you're staying is located in a safe neighborhood. If so, take a walk. What better way to explore your surroundings, right? Ask the hotel staff if they can suggest a nice route for you to take that might lead you to a cool neighborhood, interesting shops or parks. Some hotels even offer detailed maps of walking or jogging routes.

2. Bring the fitness class into your room. If you've ever taken a pilates course, yoga class or even one of those kick-you-into-shape ab workout sessions, chances are you know what moves will get you into fat burn mode quick. It's all about repetition. Take what you've learned and exercise it in your hotel room.

3. The fitness center is calling you. A lot of hotels these days are offering fitness centers--take advantage of it. Some Hilton hotels in Germany, Brazil and the U.K. have full-service fitness clubs. Westin has also jumped on the workout wagon and offers sleek gyms and other services in most of its hotels domestic and international. Smaller hotels may not have the space, but often times have some sort of partnership with nearby facilities. Ask the front desk if you can get a guest pass.

4. Watch TV? If you're used to working out with a fitness video, don't fret, you can achieve a similar workout in your own room. Many pay-per-view systems in your room now offer exercise programs. Some hotels even carry DVD players, so you can bring your own workout videos from home.

5. Bring the fitness center to you. Some hotel properties allow you to workout with fitness equipment in your own room. Hilton was one of the first hotels to offer treadmills in guest rooms. There is a daily charge to use such equipment, but it could be worth the convenience and privacy.