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Relax, recover & move

The holiday season is almost here. Woo-hoo! Some of you may be getting ready to jet off somewhere warm, to lounge by a pool; soak up some sun and generally chill, and about time too. We all know that rest and recovery is hugely important for mental and physical well-being, but where does that leave exercise? Is a holiday your cue to take a complete break from physical activity, or should you try to stay fit whilst you’re away?

Let’s be realistic, keeping up with your usual exercise routine is highly unlikely on a 2-week vacation, and that’s just fine. You’re on holiday, you’re supposed to take a break and kick back, but that doesn’t necessarily mean a fortnight without movement. There are many fitness options available, you just have to look for them and plan ahead.

You’ve planned the transport; the accommodation; the places to visit, so it makes total sense to have a loose plan for your exercise too. Think about what to pack, you’ll need workout kit; trainers and maybe even a resistance band thrown into your luggage (they’re great for mini exercise circuits). Preload some tech options before you go. Download an app with guided workouts or runs; recover the log in details for your favourite online classes; or program an interval timer to create a DIY circuit of your own. Also, do a little research for available facilities near your accommodation. A hotel gym; local running routes; yoga on the beach; water sports…., you might even find a new sport or activity to try. Mix it up a bit, change is as good as a rest!

Once on holiday, think about timings and try to form a vague plan that works. If you’re in a hot country, you might want to crack on early morning, before the heat builds up. Be realistic about how much you do, short 20-minute bursts every couple of days might work perfectly for you. Or maybe an hour in the hotel gym is required so you can sneak off for some ‘me time’! There’s no right or wrong amount, so don’t beat yourself up, every effort is a win. And remember, any type of movement counts –a sunset walk, swimming, dancing, beach games with the kids, it’s all good.

The main thing to take with you is that exercise isn’t a routine chore, it’s fun and enjoyable. The ability and capability to move your body is an absolute gift, just like that imminent holiday. So, have a fabulous summer – relax, recover, move and most of all enjoy!

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