Training on Vacation
I’m spending this week in at the beach with my better half and her family. I’m also two weeks out from my first powerlifting meet; needless to say, I am indeed training this week.
While going on vacation two weeks out from a physical competition might not be ideal, it’s actually working out for a few reasons.
I’m getting more sleep than normal.
I’m not facing the degree of stressors that come along with a typical work week.
I am training in a new and unfamiliar gym, which I hope will help me mentally prepare to execute in an uncomfortable environment on meet day.
If you have to (or want to) train on vacation, here are a few tips.
Do your best to stick to a routine. Knocking your training out first thing in the morning is probably your best bet.
Do your research before traveling. Simply finding a gym is step one, but calling ahead to ensure they allow drop-ins is equally important. Look at Google Map reviews; I found a gym with great bars, plates and racks to train in…but doesn’t allow the use of chalk. If you’re a runner, research routes ahead of time.
Make due with what you have. There is nothing wrong with substituting movements, modifying your routine, etc. Some training is usually better than no training. Give these hotel room workouts a try!
Don’t gorge yourself, but give yourself some grace. Sleep in. Drink a few beers. Eat the fried chicken and the chocolate cake. Let your vacation be something that relieves stress instead of piling on more.
I find putting in work in a gym or a run during vacation helps me enjoy my time away even more, even if the equipment/elements aren't exactly what I'm used to. It helps me to not feel so out of it when I return to my routine.