Healthy Habits Take a Vacation

July 21, 2010
Written by: Julie Bosche, Filed in: Employee Health Programs

Let’s face it: When you go on vacation, your healthy diet and exercise regimen do, too.

A number of your employees are probably taking advantage of the summer months to use some of their well-earned vacation time.

The closest many people will come to a workout while vacationing is the sandy trek from their lounge chair to the beach bar and back.

Sure, it’s OK to loosen up on your diet and exercise routine occasionally (and temporarily), and what better time to do so than when you’re indulging in leisure time with your nearest and dearest?

Chances are, however, that you’ll find it harder to get back into the swing of things once you return from the blissful land of vacation.

It can be challenging to get back to working out every day (instead of lounging by the ocean and soaking up the sun) and eating right (having salads and whole grains for lunch instead of fried shrimp and hush puppies, for instance).

To head off the problem before it becomes one, consider incorporating some of your healthy habits into your time away.

Here are a few tips to give your trip a boost of good health:

A jog or a brisk walk on the beach is a great way to work off a big seafood dinner (and the scenery beats the heck out of what you get on the treadmill at your gym).

About that seafood dinner … Consider ordering it grilled, not fried, and if the portions are large, offer to split a meal with someone in your party.

No matter where your travels take you, there is likely plenty of sightseeing to do. Lace up your walking shoes and take in the sights by foot instead of joining a tour bus or driving to the spots on your must-see list.

Rent a bicycle and explore your destination city on two wheels.

Watch your alcohol consumption. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re having a good time with friends, but keep safety at the top of your priority list. And remember that those calories add up fast.