Lightweight and packable workout essentials that help you stay in shape while on the go.
During a regular week we don’t need convincing to work up a sweat. We’ll happily snag a spot at the 6 A.M. barre class. But when we’re traveling, despite our best intentions, sometimes our lofty fitness goals fall off the to-do list. That’s why we found the five essential items that will help you stay fit on the road. The lightweight, carry-on ready gear will help you stick with your regular routine, without taking up precious luggage space. What’s more, these necessities won’t just help you sculpt strong muscles, they’ll also help ward off the body aches and pains caused from traveling.
Therapy Balls: The benefits of foam rolling are endless. And while some companies make travel-sized rollers, we find that they still fit into our luggage awkwardly, and then never quite do the trick for releasing tight shoulders (although they still work wonder on our calves). That’s why we pack therapy balls, like these from Yoga Tune Up ($11.95). They nix tightness and keep our muscles feeling good wherever we go.
Credit: Yoga Tune Up
Packable Yoga Mat: A yoga mat makes the cut because it creates a personal (and clean) space for fitness anywhere, whether it’s a guest bedroom or at the park near your hotel. The eKO SuperLite Travel Mat from Manduka ($40) weighs only two pounds and is designed to be folded, not rolled. Tip: Unpack and lay out the mat as soon as you settle in – the constant visual will remind you to spend at least a few minutes on the mat each day.
Credit: Manduka
Resistance Bands: This is the ultimate on-the-go training tool. Resistance bands are extremely portable while also being extremely versatile – celebrity personal trainer Astrid McGuire uses the toning equipment for on-location workouts. While the exercises are endless, we like to keep it simple while we’re traveling, so here are the only seven resistance band moves you’ll need.
Credit: Amazon
Activity Tracker: OK, this packable fit gear is actually a wearable. And, while the activity tracker (like the Jawbone UP24 pictured) won’t do your workout for you, wearing it provides a constant real-time reminder of just how active (or in-active) you’ve been. Remember, new research has found that just one minute of intense exercise is beneficial for your health, so every bit counts, even when traveling.
Credit: PC Advisor
Sneakers: The best way to see a new city, is to run it. While plenty of fitness-friendly hotels offer perks (including sneakers you can loan), pack your favorite pair so you can be ready for anything. And, that includes trying out the best local fitness studios and gyms, or just busting out 30-seconds of high knees and squat jumps in your childhood bedroom (hey, beggars can’t be choosers, re: location).
Credit: Pop Sugar