If you are an active person, your workout routine is likely one of the most important parts of your week. When you travel, that carefully-planned-and-followed routine can become disrupted by new schedules, new environs and a lack of necessary equipment to finish your hard-core workout.
Fret not, though—just because you don’t have access to a gym, doesn’t mean you need to have a sedentary holiday. Instead, look where you’re headed and see what natural workouts you can complete while still enjoying and experiencing the new space you find yourself in. Or, go a step further and pick a destination based on what options they have for physical activity. Here’s a quick round-up of destinations that combine travel, adventure and fitness perfectly to create great workouts around the world.
Step up in Chand Baori, India
Stairwells will never seem the same once you visit Chand Baori for your workout. This stepwell, or communal water-gathering and social congregating area, is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan and is perfectly maintained. It is a true work of art. When you go to visit, ogle at its beauty as you make your way up and down the thousands of stairs and levels for an out-of-this-world leg workout.
Cycle and sightsee in Croatia
Taking a spin class may just about wipe you out, but cycling is actually a great way to exercise all the muscle groups in your legs and get an amazing cardio workout at the same time. While you could cycle at home, there are so many places around the world that you could peddle through that are, well … maybe a little more interesting than your sidewalk. Once such place is Croatia. A holiday in Croatia affords you the opportunity to cycle and sightsee at the same time. Imagine speeding along the Dalmatian Coast while spying ancient castles and old city walls every which way you look. You’ll return from your Croatian getaway feeling healthy and recharged.
Paddle in the South Pacific
Head to Hawaii, the world’s most remote chain of islands, and you will instantly drift into local time where everything moves a little slower, everyone is a little happier and having a great time is the main priority. One of the favourite pastimes of locals in Hawaii is stand-up paddle boarding, which has gained a huge following in recent years. Rent a paddleboard from any number of outfitters in Hawaii and get up close and personal with the ocean’s wildlife in a new way. As you paddle around the coral reefs, keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles and bright fish. You will also be getting an amazing workout that will tone your arms, train your core and help you strengthen your balance.
Hang ten in Perth
We never said you had to go far for a great workout. Consider staying domestic and heading to Perth for a surf session. You can get away from everyone you know but stay in a culture and country you are familiar with. It doesn’t hurt that Australia is home to some of the world’s best surfing beaches. Plus, surfing is an amazing way to stay fit. You’ll be paddling hard to catch the big waves and standing on the board to ride the waves and then paddling back out over and over again. Talk about a great core and cardio workout. Perth is a great destination to get in the water, get wet and catch some amazing waves.
Get centred in the Bahamas
Need a little activity that keeps you mindful, aware and present while you’re travelling? Try yoga in a quiet, calm, beautiful place to practice. There are multiple yoga retreats peppered throughout the Bahamas to guide you on a journey of relaxation and calmness. Don’t think you have to stick to a studio and yoga mat, though—find a deserted early-morning beach and try downward dog in the sand.
Get psyched about the workout you can get while you’re travelling and de-stress by getting your endorphins flowing during any of these activities in any of these places. Pack your passports—and your workout gear—and get going on your active holiday. No matter where you go or what you do, safeguard your holiday against the unexpected with travel insurance from Cover-More New Zealand. Don’t let unexpected travel changes cost you a fortune, and don’t let anything hold you back from the perfect workout.