I was sitting next to a man who was travelling 13 hours by plane for a two-hour meeting and then back again- in the same week!
Etihad B777 Business Cabin
We talked about the loneliness and hectic craziness that results from such a rough schedule. He admitted to eating most of his meals in his hotel room. We reflected on how many business people put on weight and feel unhealthy.
Some thoughts on hacking our trips:
- Be clear on our travel goals- why are you travelling to your destination?
- Evaluate whether you are meeting those goals – was the trip really worth the time and money cost?
- Be sensible -build in downtime or recovery time into your travel
- Have a buddy you are accountable each week- mine finds out if I have exercised each week, what my weight is and if I have eaten chips!
- Track food intake – I use My Fitness Pal
- Look around and see something of the place that is being travelled through
This was behind my hotel in Helsinki
- Eat locally instead of in your hotel- walk to a nearby restaurant
- Build in exercise by walking from conference venue or office to hotel instead of a taxi
- Set aside time or a quick gym work out or a swim in the morning or after your meeting. I look for fun runs which force me to simultaneously exercise and experience some of the local colour
Any other thoughts?
I’m on MyFitnessPal too! One of the most eye-opening things I did was get a FitBit. I always figure I walk a lot when I’m traveling, but I forget that I live in a city and do a ton of walking each day. I was surprised to see how sedentary I actually was when checking out a new city.
Great tips!
Hey Martin! This is awesome thank you so much for putting this out there. So many people travel and struggle with maintaining their workouts and nutrition. I also use My Fitness Pall and love it. 🙂
I’m actually in the process of developing a service specifically for people who travel for work. I call it Road Warrior Fitness. It provides individualized workout programs that are adapted to your travel schedule and equipment availability. Plus, you get the support and accountability of checking in with your coach once a week and 24 hour support.
If you are interested, I’m looking for people to try this service out and give me feedback/reviews. I’d love to jump on a phone call if that’s something you might like to try for free! 🙂
Also, here’s blog I wrote about 5 Road Warrior Tips to Stay Healthy.
https://coachsarahcara.com/2017/05/23/5-tips-to-stay-healthy-while-traveling-for-work/
Let me know, and if not, keep being awesome!
Sarah