Betty Doyling

Vacations are usually a break from routine and, while they can be great for relieving stress, they can also wreak havoc on exercise plans.

When travelling, I normally manage to get a workout in by starting early before the day gets started.

As it is a holiday, I allow for a little indulgence in my meals — chicken and waffles, chocolate or a cup of gelato — but continue to make wise food choices; my plate is usually filled with proteins and vegetables not burgers and fries.

However, even I have had those trips where I decide I’m going to eat whatever the heck I want.

Finding balance is ideal. If you’ve been working extremely hard to lose weight, you don’t want to trash it with a week of treats.

The problem becomes, how do you rein it in after vacation is over?

Hydrate

After days of not cooking and eating high-sodium restaurant foods your body is longing for water. It will be the best detox for you. Try to drink between half an ounce and an ounce of water for each pound you weigh, daily — if you weigh 150lbs, drink 75 to 150oz of water a day for a week.

Sweat

Working out is probably the last thing on your to-do list after a vacation but you don’t want to build unhealthy habits by continuing a sedentary lifestyle. Don’t dwell on how many workouts you’ve missed, think about how awesome they will be now you’ve given your body rest. A good workout will give you the motivation that you need to get back on track.

Go grocery shopping

Start healthy and fill your cart with lots of your favourite fruits and vegetables and proteins. Incorporating healthy foods into your first week back will help you feel better and more energetic.

Go to bed

This is very important for getting your sleep back on track. Try to get to bed earlier — even 15 minutes will help. Making healthier choices and decisions are much easier when you are well rested.

Eat at home

Think about how easy it was to splurge when out to eat — then decide not to do it, at least for a while. Try to pack your own healthy meals to take to work, which will save loads of money as well.

Stay off the scales

Don’t weigh yourself. If you feel you’ve gained a few pounds, what is seeing the number on the scale going to do for you? Even if you are motivated by seeing numbers, don’t beat yourself up about the choices you’ve made. Focus on the future and move on.

Get inspired, not depressed after your vacation! Find a new workout or favourite recipe and B-Active For Life!

Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Check her out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/B.ActiveForLife