by Birgit Starmanns

Created on: April 28, 2008   Last Updated: May 05, 2008

On a recent business trip, I sat in yet another airline seat, impatiently trying to stretch my legs. In a past life, I would have checked into the hotel, ordered greasy foods from room service, and spent the night working, only to wake up complaining about a stiff neck and back.

Not anymore. Motivated by the many workout song lists published in the media, plus my at-home routine, I use music to put a beat into my fitness routine, a beat that continues on the road. These techniques have worked for me, and can help you stay on track.

Get Exercise!
Whether your speed is Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run," or Abba's "Dancing Queen," it's important to keep moving. Call your hotel to inquire about workout facilities, or local trails for running. For specific hobbies, such as dancing, research which classes allow drop-ins. Workout clothing can easily be tucked in a suitcase, although athletic (or tap dance) shoes may take a bit more room. The most reliable way to stick to your fitness goals is to develop a routine that any hotel room can accommodate: leg stretches including lunges, crunches to work your abs, isolation exercises, and using water bottles as light weights.

Watch your Nutrition
You may be listening to Bow Wow Wow's "I Want Candy," but don't give in to vending machine temptations. Airline, train, even aggressive road trip schedules, often leave you without food for hours. Carry nutritional snacks such as health bars to tide you over. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated; you can purchase bottled water once you clear security at airports. Airline food courts increasingly offer healthy options to take on a flight. Once you arrive, find a restaurant and choose a light meal, such as a salad that incorporates proteins. If all restaurants are closed, a 24-hour grocery store with deli counters offers pre-packaged healthy meals.

Keeping your Sanity
Remind yourself of home to be "Feelin' Alright" along with Joe Cocker. Reach out and call family, friends, and significant others to keep connected. Make time for something you enjoy. Try local sight-seeing (even if it's at midnight!). After working late, spend time before going to sleep with your current book, your journal, a favorite TV show, even completing a knitting project.

If All Else Fails. . . . .
Even on a whirlwind trip of four cities in two days, remember that little things add up to increase fitness. Carry your luggage instead of burdening the bellman. On business, take the stairs instead of the elevator. On vacation, walk through the historic parts of town instead of opting for the bus tour. And if you need musical motivation to comply, try Aerosmith's "Walk this Way!"

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