Vacations are a fun and relaxing bonding experience for families and friends to catch up, do activities together, and maybe even have some fun in the sun. However, if your vacation falls in between physical therapy visits, during training season, or if you’re an exercise enthusiast, staying active while on vacation can reduce the risk of losing some hard-earned progress. But that’s okay because, with a little bit of planning, you can stay active and healthy throughout your trip. Here are a few key things you can do.
Going on Vacation During Physical Therapy
If you’re going on vacation in between visits with your physical therapist for an extended period, the first thing you should do is to have a conversation with your physical therapist about creating a tailored home exercise program (HEP), Or should we say a vacation exercise plan ;). This way you can continue working towards the progress of your recovery without regressing back.
Don’t forget to ask your physical therapist for advice on preventing injury or re-injury while away. By listening to your physical therapist’s instructions, keeping your workout regimen on track, continuing your HEP on vacation, and avoiding situations that can result in re-injury or aggravation, you should be able to enjoy your time away and return back home ready and reenergized to take on whatever is next!
Going on Vacation During Training Season
If you’re going on vacation during training season, speak with your coaches and trainers. Most hotels have gyms that you can utilize early in the morning or late at night. If you’ve chosen an Airbnb, look for local areas that you use for running paths or ask for a functional exercise routine that uses your body as the weights. Physical therapists are trained in adjusting exercise positions to work out muscle groups, so if you need help developing a routine, consider using your local PT as a resource.
Planning your Exercise Routine
Make sure to put time aside to conduct an exercise program or to work on your HEP while on vacation. If you’re not the one planning the itinerary – that’s okay. Try to find times before or after planned events, right before bed, or if you take midday breaks – those are great times too. Finding time to exercise can be challenging, but the reward is worth it. Keeping track and having a plan will ensure that you don’t lose the progress that you have worked hard on.
When flying or driving, most people are sedentary while going to and from their destination. This is an excellent opportunity to get up and conduct your exercise program, perform stretches, or just walk around and loosen your legs. Try to take advantage of breaks on your vacations such as:
- Waiting for an Uber/Taxi
- Waiting In the airport for a flight
- Waiting In long lines
- Taking stops for gas
- Stopping for lunch
- Stopping for bathroom breaks
We hope you have an amazing time making new memories with friends and family. If you need help working your HEP into your vacation schedule or don’t think you’ll be able to keep up with a home exercise program, let your physical therapist know. They may be able to come up with some fun alternative ways of staying active while on vacation!