Spring break not the time to break from exercise

Spring break is here, and for many of us this means taking a vacation.

A vacation during spring break does not have to mean a break in your fitness routine. The key to preserving your fitness sanity on vacation is to maintain overall good habits.

The following tips can be used during any break in your normal fitness routine:

“Develop a Plan B. When planning your initial everyday fitness routine, anticipate and prepare for changes affecting that routine. Let’s be real: The odds of you maintaining your current fitness routine uninterrupted for more than a few months are pretty low. Having a Plan B that can be used if your situation changes will allow you not to miss a beat.

For example, if you use a fitness facility for cardiovascular workouts such as running, your Plan B might include a predetermined route around your neighborhood that can give you the same workout without the use of the gym. If you’re away on vacation, your cardio Plan B might involve a day of walking through an amusement park or city.

“Bring the gym with you. Resistance bands, water-inflated free weights or your favorite fitness video all can be easily carried with you wherever you go. Don’t forget that one of the best forms of resistance training uses your body weight.

Body weight exercises such as push-ups, crunches, lunges and squats don’t require much space to complete and are great exercises.

“Pack with your fitness program in mind. If you seriously plan to stay active while you are away, don’t forget the appropriate clothes and shoes, keeping in mind the climate of the location you will be visiting.

“Use your time wisely. The point of going on vacation is to have FUN, not to worry about how many crunches you did or didn’t do that day. Find activities that are not only fun but will keep you physically active. Try new and challenging activities. You never know — the change in activity and routine may introduce you to something you may want to continue when you get home.

“Remain sensible with your nutrition while you are away. Enjoy yourself, but make wise choices.

The bottom line is to use what you know, keep moving, be creative and have fun. As fitness becomes more and more a part of your lifestyle, you will find spring break a great chance to enjoy fitness even more.

Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.