Why it’s important to stay healthy on holiday
It is crucial to understand why maintaining healthy habits during your holidays is so important:
-
Maintains a balance: Helps prevent putting on weight you don’t want.
-
Improves your enjoyment: You’ll feel more energetic and make the most of your activities.
-
Reduces post-holiday stress: Helps you get back to your routine.
-
Reinforces positive habits: It shows it is possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle under any circumstances.
People who stay healthy during their holidays report greater satisfaction and general well-being.
Tips for staying active during your holidays
Include physical exercise in your daily plans
-
Walk and explore: Get to where you want to go on foot.
-
Practise water sports: Swimming, surfing or paddle boarding are all great options.
-
Take some classes: Beach yoga or take up dancing.
Make the most of the hotel facilities
-
Gym: Dedicate 30 minutes a day to strength exercises.
-
Pool: Swim a few lengths each morning.
Plan active trips
-
Hiking: Explore local nature.
-
Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the town.
Outdoor exercise is associated with greater feelings of revitalisation and decreased tension, confusion, anger and depression.
Strategies for healthy eating on holiday
Plan your meals
-
Nutritional breakfast: Start the day with proteins and fibre.
-
Healthy snacks: Take fruit or nuts.
-
Drink water regularly: Especially in hot climates.
-
Minimise alcohol: Avoid alcoholic drinks whenever possible.
-
Try typical dishes: Enjoy local cuisine in moderation, if possible, in small portions.
-
Choose healthier options: Go for grilled or steamed dishes.
Maintaining a balanced diet while on holiday can improve the overall travel experience and reduce the stress associated with changes in your eating routine.
Balance between resting and being active
Prioritise sleeping
-
Maintain a regular schedule: Try to go to bed and get up at similar times each day.
-
Create a peaceful environment: Use earplugs or a sleep mask if necessary.
Include time for relaxation
-
Practise mindfulness: Spend a few minutes a day meditating.
-
Enjoy reading: Choose a book that helps you switch off.
Balance active days with relaxed days
-
Alternate activities: Go to the beach one day and have an excursion the next, for example.
The importance of balancing activity and rest is underlined by scientific studies, which have found that holidays have positive effects on wellbeing, but these effects tend to fade quickly. Maintaining a balance can help prolong those benefits.
Advice for long trips
Exercises during the journey
-
By plane or train: Stretch gently in your seat.
-
By car: Make regular stops to walk around and stretch.
Food during the journey
-
Prepare healthy snacks: Avoid fast food in airports and stations.
-
Stay hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle.
Technology as an ally for a healthy holiday
Fitness and nutrition apps
-
Activity tracking: Use apps to keep track of your step count and exercises.
-
Food diary: Write down your meals to stay in control.
Meditation and mindfulness
-
Guided meditation apps: Ideal for relaxing after a busy day.
A study published in the journal Health promotion international found that the use of health and fitness apps can have a positive impact on physical activity, as it reduces sedentary behaviour, even during holiday periods.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the holidays doesn't have to be difficult. With proper planning, it’s possible to enjoy free time without compromising your health. Holidays are a great opportunity for recharging your batteries, as well as to reinforce lifestyle habits that can be maintained in the long term.
