Whether you’re heading abroad or having a UK staycation, it’s worth knowing the simple daily actions that will keep you on track. Here’s how my clients come back from holiday leaner and lighter than they went!
Do your research
Holidays are always exciting, especially if you love to explore. Before you go, spend some time researching the local area. Look for supermarkets, green grocers (or similar), butchers and fishmongers if you are self-catering. Use Google maps and Trip Advisor to research walking routes, cycle paths, and official activities.
Book activities
It’s a good idea to book activities before you leave home, to avoid losing out in the rush. Want to go snorkelling with seals? Go on a guided mountain bike trip? Join a local hike? Book it now – that’s one important job done.
Pack active wear
If you only pack bikinis, sarong and flip flops, guess how active you’ll end up being on your holiday. Be sure to pack clothing to support an active holiday: trainers or walking shoes, shorts or leggings, a sports bra, hat and sunglasses, sports sun cream. Don’t let clothing be your excuse.
Travel calories still count
Be honest, how do you behave in an airport or motorway services? Why do perfectly rational human beings suddenly turn into snack monsters just because they’re on a journey. The fact is, a cream-topped frappe and family bag of jelly sweets has the same amount of calories regardless of where you’re heading.
Pack travel snacks (water, sugar-free fizzy drinks, fruit, wraps or sandwiches with protein filling). If you get caught short, make smarter choices at the eateries en route.
Stock your kitchen
If you’re in self-catering accommodation, give someone the job of stocking the kitchen when you arrive. Head to that local supermarket you earmarked during your research and stock up on water, fruit and veg, salad items, eggs, coffee and any other healthy must-haves. Don’t fall into the trap of buying treats for every meal of every day.
Sightsee on foot
Try to walk everywhere on holiday. I appreciate that this is easier for child-free couples, but my advice is still to be intentional about walking. Not only will you burn a lot of calories, but you’ll get to see parts of your holiday location that the typical tourist routes miss out entirely.
Drink loads of water
This is fundamental advice for any location, but it becomes more important when you’re doing lots of walking in a warmer location. Drink water in your accommodation before you head out for the day, carry water with you, ask for water with meals out, and refresh with water when you get back.
Eat fresh and seasonal
When choosing meals out, use the opportunity to try local vegetables, good seafood, and seasonal organic ingredients. I really enjoy a fish dish with a big salad when we holiday on an island or near the coast. Why eat things you can get at home? Try the best of healthy local food.
Choose better nibbles
Evenings on holiday can consist of alcohol and nibbles. You know the kind of thing I mean: bowls of nuts, crisps, olives, and mystery objects from the local shop. I’m all for enjoying a wind-down with friends and family. But these little snacks can easily add hundreds of calories to your day. Switch to low-cal nibbles like crudites and cherry tomatoes.
The return journey…
Nobody wants to think about coming home before they’ve gone on holiday. But it’s a smart idea. Stock your freezer with healthy food, or set up a supermarket delivery for the day you come back. Book your Personal Training sessions, gym slots, or fitness classes. Have your healthy routine ready and waiting for your return!
My clients learn how to lose weight and keep it off all year round, through holidays and celebrations and busy periods. Drop me an email if you’re ready to start your own body transformation.
Coach Joseph Webb.
‘The number one rated Personal Trainer In Henley and Oxfordshire’
