how to stay motivated over (summer) vacation

School’s out for the next few months, which means it’s time to see how we stay motivated over summer vacation! If you’ve been a reader of Runs With Pugs for a while, you know that our family maintains a bit of an untraditional schedule. Due to the types of jobs we have, Mr PugRunner and I can both work remotely, and are able to really take full advantage of the summer, when little man is home from school.

He does attend a few camps, but right now, he is a lot more interested in more unstructured time, playing and hanging out with friends. He works so hard in school all year that we are comfortable giving him some downtime to unwind and prep for the next academic year.

Being on such a changing schedule with so many moving parts can definitely play a part in sidelining fitness endeavors, but here are some of the ways I stay motivated over summer vacation.

Be prepared.

Bring your running or training shoes and at least an outfit or two in your suitcase. Sure, there are a few hotels that offer complimentary (or close to it) workout gear just in case, but it’s great to have your own. Eliminating the excuses can certainly make working out on vacation or while traveling that much easier.

Use the gym.

So many hotels offer gyms and fitness centers, so it only makes sense to take advantage. At the very least, you’ll be able to get in some cardio or floor work, if not a full weight routine. Just like at home, all you need to do is carve out a little extra time to get it done.

Have a backup plan.

If you don’t have access to a fitness center, be prepared with a workout plan you can do in your room using furniture or even your own body weight. Pinterest is loaded with great exercise ideas that can easily be done in small spaces with little to no equipment. Easy peasy.

Use what’s at your fingertips.

If a structured workout doesn’t fit in the plans, then do the best you can with what you have. Opt for walking instead of driving to your destinations if you can. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. Schedule adventures that are maybe a little more active than not. Walking can be a fabulous exercise while traveling and should not be overlooked as valid option.

Enjoy yourself. Wisely.

You’ll probably be eating out more while on vacation, but that doesn’t mean your healthier eating plans are destroyed. If you have access to a kitchen, then it becomes much easier but if restaurants and out food is your option… Splurge on yummy things, but make smart choices. On our most recent staycation, I ate the most amazing food, but stuck to grilled and blackened seafood with lots of leafy greens, among other lean proteins and veggies. I resisted mindless snacking and sugary cocktails at the pool (not to worry, there are plenty of other adult beverages out there) and came home feeling great, on track and not one bit deprived.

With the right planning and outlook, your fitness can continue seamlessly through your summer and/or vacation without interrupting or intruding on your plans.

I’m joining up with Fridays With Fairytales & Fitness. Head on over and check them out!

How do you stay motivated over summer vacation or break?

What’s the one sure-fire way you stay healthy and on track while out of town?