Isn’t it terribly impossible to stay fit when you’re vacationing? How could you with the long list of sumptuous buffets, drinks and desserts to savour? How to earnestly follow the do’s and don’ts of dieting when you’re supposed to be letting your hair down and having all the fun in the world? You’re ON VACATION mind you. Vacations are notorious for allowing you to offer excuses to pack on the pounds. These simple steps will help you maintain your shape while you’re enjoying your holiday.

1. Do some research

Before you travel, research the best place to perform your favourite exercises. If you love running, seek out the best running trails. If aerobics classes turn you on, search for gyms in the area and check out their class schedules.

2. Bring your gear

There is sure some space in your traveling luggage to fit in your exercise gear, e.g. workout shoes, track pants, extra outfits, etc. This way you don’t leave room for excuses for not exercising.

3. Let the endorphins flow

If you’ve been exercising for sometime, you know how much your body craves for the endorphin highs. Don’t deprive yourself of it.

4. Burn calories everyday

If you’re too busy for a workout, or if your hotel does not have an exercise room, make a conscious effort to burn calories everyday. Go for a brisk walk in the early morning or after your day’s activities. You can map out historic sites and take a walking tour. The plus point is, you get to explore and experience sights and sounds of a new place. If your hotel has a swimming pool, go for a few laps. Try the stairs in the hotel or any building you visit instead of taking the elevator.

5. Holiday is not a time to eat junk

When you’re in a foreign place, it’s easier to walk into the nearest fast food joint because you know what you’ll find and what to order. Remember, junk food is junk food anywhere in the world. Be bold to try out healthy local cuisine. It’s much more exciting that way. Holiday is all about exploration.

6. Avoid fried food

Even if you have to eat in a fast food joint because of low prices and quick service, don’t fall into the trap of tucking in burgers and fries because of convenience. You’re bound to gain weight as a gram of fat contains 9 calories as compared to 4 calories in proteins and carbohydrates. Fried foods are also known to cause heartburn and indigestion. Commit yourself to healthier eating choices which many restaurants are now offering.

7. Try out fresh local fruits

Visit the local farmers market to savour all the delicious fresh and tangy local fruits and produce. They are sure to taste much better in the country of its origin than when imported.

8. Share the fun of exercise

Invite others to join you in staying fit. This will keep you on track and accountable. You won’t easily give excuses. Besides, what’s better than sharing the fun of being healthy together?

The key to staying fit when vacationing is to prepare and commit yourself in the first place. This will ensure success… and wouldn’t it be great to return from your vacation looking slimmer and feeling fabulous?

Enjoy your vacation!

Dr. Oz Holiday Diet Tips

Here are some tips from Dr.Oz himself on how to control your eating habits specifically during holiday parties at the office or with friends.

Bring your own dish – If you take a dish to the party then you know there will be at least one healthy food to snack on.

Scan the buffet – Before diving into the first thing you see, take time to look at all the options. And feel free to pick at things too. If the finger sandwiches are drenched in mayonnaise, just eat the meat filling but not the bread.

Make substitutes – If you really want to eat some dip, eat it with raw veggies and not the salty chips that will intensify your cravings.

Sit far from the buffet – The less food you see the less you will be tempted.

Keep one hand occupied – Carry around a club soda with lime during the party because if you have only one hand free, you’re less apt to pick up another plate of food.

Source: www.doctoroz.com