3 Ideas for an Active Vacation

Winter can be hard on people for a multitude of reasons. The cold is brutal on joints and skin, the days are short, and exercise isn’t as easy when it has to be done in several feet of snow.

So, once the warmth of spring and summer emerges, why not take a vacation that also acts as a way to get moving again? It can be easier than you think to combine physical activity with sightseeing, and trying new foods; you just need to know where to look.

Water

You don’t need to go tropical to enjoy some water sports. Yes, scuba diving in the Caribbean can be a dream come true, but there are other things to do in closer parts of the world.

Surf lessons in California are a great way to engage in local culture, and work out your core. Not only that, but you can have first-hand experiences with wildlife in the open water, like dolphins. Jet skiing is easy to do anywhere, and can be an affordable way to get from bay to bay, or even island to island. It may not be quite the workout you’re looking for, but it is a good way to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather.

For those that really want to wear themselves out, while also seeing a new city, try kayaking. In Minneapolis, MN you can navigate the rivers and lakes that the city is built around, and in Palm Beach, FL, you can use them to get from beach to beach to explore the state parks and shopping available.

Walking and Yoga

It can be tempting to take cabs everywhere, or to situate yourself in a way that you don’t really need to move to get what you want on vacation. But instead of renting that camp ground and staying put, eating s’mores and drinking soda, go on a hike. See the local flora in that area, and (from a distance) the fauna. Most state parks have information on hikes for all skill levels, so take advantage and see what nature has to offer.

Or, if you’re in an area that offers it, try a free yoga lesson one morning. They’re no longer just at resorts first thing in the morning. Art museums, city parks, and even some coffee shops and distilleries will dedicate one hour a week to a yoga class in the area. It’s a great way to get your body aligned and ready for the busy day ahead, but also to meet locals who can give you the best advice on what activities to make time for, and almost more importantly, what to skip.

Wheels

Is water not your thing? Yoga leaves you too sore to move? Then look into vehicle rentals, with or without motors. ATV’s and golf carts can be a great way to get around large resorts or to tour landmarks. Segways are also great for tours, especially if you’re visiting a large city. It’s not a traditional way to get exercise, but as there is a fair amount of core work and coordination involved to stay on and navigate it, you’ll get to work your muscles that way.

But the easiest, and most cost effective, way to really see a new place is on a bike. You’re getting a full body workout, so you can get yourself back into the active mindset. You can make as many, or as few, stops as you want. And the best part is, they’re available from coast to coast. There’s bicycle rental in Bayonne, NJ, to Portland, OR. Renting them is easy, and stations are plentiful, so be sure to keep an eye out while playing tourist.