When traveling it's important to stick to a workout routine but in a strange city safety also needs to be a priority. If you are staying at someone's home or at a hotel without fitness facilities keep these tips in mind.
1) Get a Map: Most concierges have street maps of the surrounding area. It is wise to consult the concierge of the safe areas of town and highlight on the map a route that would keep you in those areas. Asking for major streets that you could easily follow the entire way with very little turns are the best way to go. For Example, Michigan Avenue in Chicago. It's a well traveled, busy area that could be run up and down to get a couple miles in.
2) Identify Yourself: Wear a sneaker identification tag or make sure you take your drivers license and some cab fare in case you get lost. Better safe than sorry. These items can be tucked in a short pocket or in a cell phone arm band.
3) Be aware: As much as listening to music is a great motivator during exercise, it is best not to wear headphones in areas that you are unfamiliar with. It is important to be alert at all times and make sure you can hear what is going on around you. Save the music for the gym or your neighborhood.
4) Travel Together: Whenever possible, try to run with someone you are traveling with to increase safety.
5) Timing: Try to run only in daylight if you are not familiar with the area. Avoid running in the dark; you may become disoriented in the dark and it is harder to find your way back.
6) Resources: If your hotel provides a running concierge or personal training services consider using these services. You can also invest in a Versa loop (Resistance band) and perform strength exercises in your hotel room. You can also do Pilates, yoga or even a calisthenics routine in your room, just place a towel on the floor and go.
7) Variety: If you know you are going to be traveling and cardio is going to be hard to accomplish, try to do a couple cardio workouts before you leave and plan to do them when you get back. Choose to do strength work while you are away.
Remember something is better than nothing. Stay safe and have a great trip!
About the Author: Lauren Lorenzo is an owner and Director of Training and Operations at Operation Boot Camp of North America. She is a graduate of JamesMadisonUniversity, an AFAA certified group fitness instructor, ACE certified personal trainer, certified Power Pilates instructors, and certified turbo kick instructor with over 11 years of experience. Lauren has taught classes at Atlanta Kick, The White House Athletic Center, The GreenbrierAthleticCenter, BaltimoreAthleticCenter and Athletic Club Northeast. She is currently pursuing her masters in nutrition.
Edited by: Sarah Mansfield
Operation Boot Camp is a 30 day fitness program with the mission to help people get fit through positive changes in nutrition, exercise and attitude. For more information on Operation Boot Camp, please visit www.operationbootcamp.com.