Travel fit and forget the gym
I am not a huge fan of gyms, which is kind of ironic since I am a personal trainer. It wasn’t always that way. As a flight attendant in the early 2000s, I would immediately seek out the fitness center in the hotel or find the nearest gym on long overnights. We often had access to workout facilities as a part of a crew package, so I dutifully took advantage of the perks. Much has changed in the way I travel since then.
Currently, there is more emphasis on bodyweight training and training without cumbersome equipment. It’s all about function, minimalism, being in tune with nature, and listening to what your body is trying to tell you. Mine is saying, “Why do you even think this is a good idea? You are no spring chicken.” My mind, however, is not listening and has the final say. So I will continue to do pushups and ride the roller coasters and the zip line. However, I will not use the swings in St. George, even though I think they are a great medium to sculpt, tone, and build abs of steel in a non-weight-bearing manner.
The last time I worked with clients at a St. George park, we noticed that there were signs that stated said no one over the age of 12 was permitted to use playground equipment. We were also getting ‘the look” from a couple of moms. I guess they thought that the old people might hog the swings, even though we were only on them for five minutes.
I called Leisure Services to verify usage. I was referred to the Parks Department. I was told that ordinance blah, blah, forbids the use of the equipment to anyone over the age of 12 and that “Seniors should not use the swings because they have bad balance, bad eyesight, and could break a hip.” Hmm. The whole point is preventing that from happening, but whatever. Apparently, now playground equipment is too dangerous for anyone to use.
The good news is that in some other countries there is less concern about liability. They figure that if you fall out of a swing and break your hip, it’s your own fault. I agree. Maybe we need to take a few risks and live our lives more fully. So if you don’t want to hang out at the gym while traveling, try walking through neighborhoods or to attractions or parks. While at the park, you can use the benches, steps, and sidewalks for a fun workout, unless it is forbidden. You may get a few weird looks, but believe me, there are worse things you could be doing — like watching videos or hanging out in the hotel bar. Find local trails and hikes. Book active excursions, but heed the activity level. If you aren’t fit enough to hike, climb, scuba dive, swim, bike, zip line, etc., don’t do it.
My spouse, Mike, and I encountered an amazing outdoor gym in Papeete, Tahiti. Nevermind that it was 90 degrees and 90 percent humidity. I still had a great time playing on the outdoor equipment. Mike pretended not to know me and watched the fish instead. That’s a normal reaction for him. He expects me to not act my age. I suggest you don’t act your age either unless you are 12, then you can still use the swings. However if you are over that age, participate in the culture of wherever you find yourself. Rent a bike, take a hike, use the stairs, find a park, walk the city, and enjoy your vacation to the fullest. If it’s hot outside, put ice gel packs in your pockets and wear as little as you can legally get away with. If you are in San Francisco or Denmark or even parts of Florida, it’s all good. If it’s cold outside, use heat packs and wear a coat. Take gloves, hats, and backpacks. Wear layers. Take your dog, or walk a shelter dog. There are homeless dogs everywhere that would love a little exercise and companionship. Just make sure the dog is actually homeless and that you won’t be arrested for dog-napping. Jails in any country aren’t fun places, and you will ruin your vacation if you spend time in one … which reminds me of a funny story for another travel article.
Whatever you choose to do, enjoy the city, people, animals, and terrain. No one really knows how much longer any of it will be around, so enjoy your travels while you still can:
—Don’t pack any fitness equipment, other than a small resistance band.
—Observe laws and rules for your destination (your travel agent cannot bail you out of jail).
—Travel prepared, and be ready for the unexpected.
—With the previous tip in mind, take as little as possible.
—Always take your phone with you.
—Borrow a dog, unless you are going to a bar (which reminds me of a joke).
