Are you finding that you’re too busy to make it to the gym some days? Sometimes life, school or everyday obligations pile up and you just can’t find the time for that daily workout. Additionally, travelling for work, vacation and holidays may make you feel behind on your fitness goals. Rather than relying on hotel gyms, take matters into your own hands and be prepared! Here are some basic pieces of travel friendly equipment that will fit comfortably in your bag and take up minimal space at home to ensure you stay on track.
The Basics
While this may seem obvious, always be sure to have a spare pair of sneakers and socks in your car. This ensures that if you find time in the middle of the day, you can sneak in a quick workout wherever you are! It doesn’t hurt to have a packed bag with an extra workout outfit and other gym necessities in your car. If you’re travelling for work, wear your sneakers in the airport so you don’t have to worry about them taking up room in your suitcase.
Jump Ropes
Jumping rope is a high-intensity cardio workout that incorporates balance, strength and agility. It takes up minimal space in a bag or suitcase, and can be paired with bodyweight exercises to ensure a total-body workout.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a great way to tone and strengthen the muscles with minimal impact. The more you stretch the band, the more intense the resistance gets and the harder the exercise becomes. Bands can also assist with stretching at the end of a workout. This will allow you to increase your range of motion and deepen the stretch. They are extremely portable and can provide a good upper and lower body workout.
Perfect Push-Up
The Perfect Push Up is a portable piece of exercise equipment that allows you to do push-ups without stressing the wrists. They now come in travel size and have rotating handles that snap into a non-slip base. The rotating handles actually increase muscle activation, resulting in increased definition in the arms, shoulders, back, chest and abs.
Good Tunes
Always have an extra pair of headphones on you! Plan ahead and create a motivating playlist that will amp you up to fit your workout in for the day no matter where you are!
Written by GUADS intern Lindsey with contributions from thetravelteam.com