Holiday Fitness

Keep your activity level high even when you're at the backyard of your grandma's house.
Worried that you might get out of shape while you are basking under the sun? Fret not-all you need is determination and creativity to keep yourself in shape when you're away from home.

Turn your downtime into your exercise time
Avoid the temptation of becoming sedentary between activities and all those meals.
Instead, sneak away to the spare room and turn it into your mini gym. When going on a trip, pack a few extra items into your suitcase: exercise mat, hand weights, resistance bands or a jump rope and perhaps one or two of your favorite exercise video. Though in a small space like a spare room, you could still do yoga or pilates to keep active.

Take advantage of local offerings
Do a little research of your destination before you head down there. Is your health club part of a worldwide network? You might be able to visit the branch if its the case for free or a minimal fee. Also many hotels boast of excellent health facilities now, book your room at a hotel that offer these services. No matter what are your favorite holidays activities, check out National Park Service Web site for a listing of parks and their attractions. This way, you might utilize the local park for a quick exercise. Pack your hiking boots as well or a mountain bike to take advantage of local first-rate trails.