21 Day Fix while on Vacation

When it comes to maintaining healthy habits, nothing can derail your efforts faster than a vacation. You’re faced with temptation everywhere, and it seems impossible to stick to your healthy routine.  It doesn’t have to be that way!  But you don't have to let those days away undo all your hard work.  Before you leave home, prepare yourself, plan ahead, and read these tips on how to stick to a the 21 Day Fix while on vacation. 

Portable Snacks

Pack as many portable snacks as you can.  Review the 21 Day Foods List to see which ones work best for you.  If you still have a Target (ours closed) then the coluored ziplock bags from Target work well so you know which containers correspond with each snack. 

Nuts, whole grain crackers, individual sized oatmeal packets, fruit, cut veggies, mozzarella/white cheddar sticks and of course Shakeology packets are great things to bring with you in an insulated cooler.  Don’t forget water!  Tip: Freeze your water so it can help keep other things cool.

Healthy Eating

• Call ahead to see if your hotel has a refrigerator.  Even if it doesn’t, you can often request one to be brought to your room.  Bring along healthy breakfast items, snacks and lunches so you can eat at least one healthy meal a day in your room.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water during the day and especially before you go out to eat.
• “Pre-eat” before going out for a high-fat meal.  With a little food in your stomach, you’ll be less tempted to overeat and will be able to exercise more control.
• Go easy on the alcohol and other calorie-laden beverages.  If you’re out drinking, order a large glass of water too.  Alternate one alcoholic beverage for one glass of water if you’re going to be having more than one.  Remember, the 21 Day Fix allows for one glass of wine three times a week (your “special” yellow containers).
• Plan your cheat meal ahead of time.  One of my favorite things about traveling is trying new and different foods.  Plan ahead so you know when this meal will be, and enjoy it to the fullest!
• Don’t let your blood sugar dip too low.  I'm bad for not eating enough while on vacation so pack healthy snacks like homemade lara bars and Shakeology packets.
• I don’t always have time to make my own protein bars, but I do know which bars are the best.  Trust me, they’re not all created equally!   Lara Bars are a great option to throw in your bag and head to the beach!  

Restaurant Temptation

• Look at the menu online and choose something healthy before you arrive.  That way, you won’t be tempted by all the great smells and order something you shouldn’t.
• Order what you want, even if it’s not on the menu.  If the ingredients are on the menu, chances are the cook can make something to your specification even if it’s not listed.  Don’t be afraid to request what you want. (I went to a dinner with Autumn last summer and she ordered Salmon and grilled asparagus (not on the menu)). 
• If you do order something less than healthy, go easy on the portion size.  Eat half now, save half for later.  Or, split it with a friend or family member.
• Be careful with appetizers.  Often, they’re loaded with fat and contain 1000 calories or more.  Side dishes too – instead of mashed potatoes or fries, order the salad with dressing on the side. Eating this way will give you more energy to enjoy your trip too.  I don't know about you but when I eat heavy greasy foods I feel too bloated and need a nap!  
• Often, menus will have icons next to meals indicating that they are a healthy or low-calorie choice.  Look for those.

Keep Moving!

• Pack your 21 Day Fix workout videos and play them on your laptop, ipad or iphone!  Beachbody On Demand makes travelling with your workouts easy!  It’s now available to all Club Members on mobile devices and computers. And you can get a free 30 Day Trial!  Perfect to sign up for your Vacation!
• Sometimes despite your best efforts you’re still going to take in more calories on vacation.  That’s OK – as long as you can make up for it with exercise.  Use an app like MyFitnessPal to track calories and calories out.  Even if you don’t do the 21 Day Fix videos, it’s important to stay active. I use a Fitbit and I find that while on Vacation my steps are generally way higher than usual.  It also tracks my calories burned which is helpful. 
• Stay active like the locals do – look up running/hiking trails, spots where you can rent bikes, kayaks, or other fun fitness “toys” – and make activity part of your getaway.

Stay motivated and check in with our 21 Day Fix accountability group while you’re away. We want to live vicariously through you, celebrate your victories and have fun right along with you! Don't forget to post photos of your trip and let us know how it's going!