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How to incorporate exercise on your next vacation

As a nurse I am very aware of the importance of exercise while traveling. Sitting for extended periods of time can set us up for many problems including edema, constipation, and fatigue. Incorporating exercise into your daily vacationing routine will not only ward off some of those effects I mentioned, but you'll feel better overall and enjoy your vacation that much more.

A hotel without a fitness room is nearly a thing of the past. Most hotels and motels offer well equipped fitness rooms. Most offer pools as well. If available, either of these options offer fantastic solutions to getting some exercise, so be sure to pack workout clothes and a swim suit.

Next, pack a lightweight jump rope and a set of stretch tubes. The thinner ones weigh next to nothing and the most accomplished exercise enthusiast will be able to get a good workout with these items along. Jumping rope will give you the cardio you need, and the stretch tubes the resistance. Many of the stretch tubes have door knob attachments as well, which will offer more of a variety in your workout. Some stores also have weights that you fill with water for a workout. Once deflated the weights once again pack nicely into a corner of your carry on luggage.

What about those of us who didn't even consider exercise so didn't include our jump ropes or stretch tubes? Most of us will fall into this category, I'm afraid. What if our hotel has no pool or fitness room available? What can we do? We can do sit ups, crunches, and jog or walk in place, all in our room. We could go for a brisk walk (quietly) up and down the hallways. How about making your own jumping rope by joining two or three belts together? Watch that buckle, though.

You may find that the biggest enemy keeping you from getting some exercise while vacationing is getting your mind set to do so . If that is your problem, try breaking your workout sessions into smaller, more manageable segments. Instead of thinking in terms of a thirty minute workout, try ten minutes of working out. Take the steps instead of the elevator. Walk down, back up and back down the stairs again. Park your car away from the entrance to the restaurant. When returning to your room, walk around the building a couple of times before going up to your room. While sitting or lying down, pump your feet to keep the blood from pooling in your lower legs.

Try some of these tips to help you to incorporate exercise into your vacation. It's doable and will pay huge dividends. Try it and see.

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