by Eileen Thai

Created on: February 05, 2010   Last Updated: February 06, 2010

A cruise director once said jokingly, "You get on the ship as passengers, you get off the ship as cargo." When you are pampered with fabulous food everyday for a whole week, how can you resist the temptation to stuff yourself?

For those people who love to cruise but are concerned about weight gain, this is no joking matter. It is difficult to avoid gaining weight while on a cruise, but with a little discipline, you can do it. The key word is discipline - the discipline to exercise and to eat healthier and in moderation. Here are some tips:

EXERCISE
There are many ways to incorporate exercise into your daily activities on a ship. They include:

- Walking. Whenever possible, avoid the elevators (the wait is too long anyway) and walk up or down the steps to your cabin and other locations. Swimming. With thousands of passengers on board, you may be turned off by the crowd at the pool. Try to go during the time when most people are at lunch or on shore excursions.

- Going to the gym. Take advantage of the classes (yoga, aerobics, etc) and all the fancy equipment most cruise ships have in their gym or fitness center.

- Dancing. Every evening, before or after dinner, there is music playing somewhere, offering opportunities for some dancing. Join in and have some fun!

- Excursions. Do something exciting on your shore excursions -go hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, anything that will keep your adrenaline pumping.

- Other activities. There is always something going on that everyone can participate, from a fitness class to ping-pong tournaments to rock climbing.

EATING SMARTER
- Meals. Instead of going to the buffet station, eat at the ship’s restaurants. Most are opened for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When you dine at the restaurant, you tend to relax and eat slow. The portion size is controlled, so you don't overeat (that is, as long as you don't order two of everything!)

- Food selection. Make a conscious decision to choose healthier options like oatmeal, cereal, salad, fish, chicken, vegetables and fruits. If you find it hard to turn down a mouth-watering piece of steak or other red meat, perhaps you and your traveling companion can share entrees. This gives you a chance to try a variety of foods. Cut down on simple carbs like bread and pastries (croissant, danish and donuts), and choose fruits and nuts for your snacks.

- Alcohol. Try to limit your alcohol intake as beer, soda and other mixed drinks are high in calories.

THINK POSITIVE
Don't feel guilty and get all stressed out if you miss a workout or indulge a little. Relax, you are on vacation after all! Think positive and get moving. Exercising and eating healthier and in moderation are good habits that will serve you well in the long run.

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