Happy Holidays

So I’ve put all this effort into getting in shape and now I’m going on holiday. Does this mean I’m going to have to start all over again when I get back?

The answer to that question is no.

Even if you do nothing for a couple of weeks you’ll retain some of the fitness you have gained. And with a little effort you can make sure that you hit the ground running when you get home.

Tips

You are unlikely to make any fitness gains while you are away, so just relax and concentrate on doing enough to keep things ticking over. Here are a few tips:

1. Remember to pack your gym gear. A couple of sets of shorts and t-shirts and your gym shoes should be fine.

2. If there’s a gym in your hotel, great, half an hour to an hour three times a week and you’ll be as right as rain. The hotel gym is unlikely to have the amount of equipment you are used to but it’s amazing what you can do with a bike and some dumbbells. Stick with simple exercises that you have done before.

3. If there isn’t a gym, then we would suggest swimming (see the article on swimming in this issue), running if that’s your thing (stay out of the heat of the day), walking (power walking on the beach will help to maintain the fitness level you already have) or even hiring a mountain bike.

4. If you want to do a few exercises in your room, crunches, press ups, squats (with no weight) and the plank (see article on yoga) will help keep you stay toned. Talk to our coaches and they will give you a programme to take with you.

5. You’ll probably eat and drink more than usual. Don’t beat yourself up about it, just try to fill up on fruit and vegetables (see the article on fibre), drink plenty of water and have a couple of alcohol-free days each week.

Have a great time. We’ll see you when you get back.