Are you taking a vacation this summer? Often, we spend January to June engaged in workout plans, diets, and dreams of the perfect beach body for when our toes finally hit the sand on our summer vacation. We even wrote about it in ways to get healthy in 2017. Admittedly I want to be as skinny as the palm trees while I sip a mai tai in the ocean breeze. I work my tail off, and then as soon as the plane lands, and that first breath of sweet tropical air fills my lungs, I completely forget how hard it was to get fit and feel confident in a swimsuit. I know, vacations are about indulging and I truly believe that you should, but I had to ask myself “Is there a way to indulge without undoing the last few months of blood, sweat, and tears?” The answer is yes, and here are a few tips to not only start your getaway with confidence, but return home just as fit – and maybe a little more tan.

Are you taking a vacation this summer? Often, we spend January to June engaged in workout plans, diets, and dreams of the perfect beach body for when our toes finally hit the sand on our summer vacation. We even wrote about it in ways to get healthy in 2017. Admittedly I want to be as skinny as the palm trees while I sip a mai tai in the ocean breeze. I work my tail off, and then as soon as the plane lands, and that first breath of sweet tropical air fills my lungs, I completely forget how hard it was to get fit and feel confident in a swimsuit. I know, vacations are about indulging and I truly believe that you should, but I had to ask myself “Is there a way to indulge without undoing the last few months of blood, sweat, and tears?” The answer is yes, and here are a few tips to not only start your getaway with confidence, but return home just as fit – and maybe a little more tan.

1.Balance Your Meals

There is absolutely nothing wrong with spoiling yourself and splurging when you are out to eat. In fact, I insist on it. The problem is that when most people are on vacation, they eat out almost every meal. This is a recipe for fitness disaster. Strategically indulge. Try choosing one meal a day to really treat yourself. Have the lemon butter whitefish, the lobster ravioli, the tiramisu. Order a martini or a long island iced tea. Just remember to take your time, sit back, enjoy it, after all, you are on vacation.

2.Hit the Streets

Visiting new or exotic locations is about exploring different cultures, landmarks, and destinations. Take advantage of the sights and sounds by walking whenever you can. Take time to smell the smells, feel the air, and integrate with the people. You will burn extra calories and tone your legs, and walking generally makes you healthier. Plus, you will get a more intimate experience with your surroundings while getting more out of your trip. Many hotels even offer free bicycles for guests or discounts at nearby rentals. Who knows what favorite hidden gems you might discover if you take the time to look.

3.Plan to Exercise

Just because you are on vacation does not mean that the benefits of exercise disappear. It will still boost your mood, increase your metabolism, and decrease your guilt for the inevitable and splendid phrase “Yes, I would like to see a dessert menu.” When finding a hotel, make sure it has a gym that opens early, or a pool to swim some laps. Take a jog on the beach, or do some yoga while you watch the sun rise. You will be astounded at how good you feel starting a worry-free day by doing something good for your body and mind. I promise, it will exponentially multiply your decompression.

The most important thing to remember is that healthy is a lifestyle. It is about setting expectations, and not letting yourself down in a moment of weakness. While on vacation, make a conscious and planned choice to indulge. You won’t feel guilty about it if you know that you have kept the big picture in mind. How amazing would it feel to come back from vacation knowing you look and feel even better than when you left? Follow these tips, and perhaps when the next vacation plans come around, you won’t have to slave from January to June.