Want to Lose Weight on Vacation?
How would you like to come home from your next vacation with something more exciting than a sunburn and cheap t-shirts? If you use your vaca to shed a few pounds, you’ll be jumping for joy. See how these few simple changes can help you start slimming down.
Eating Your Way to Weight Loss on Vacation
1) Bring snacks.
Airports, highway rest stops and beach foods kiosks are full of greasy burgers and junk food. Take along your own treats like fruit, nuts, and yogurt. You can pack a small cooler with fresh vegetables and fruit and even bottles of water and your own smoothies. You can eat until you are Thanksgiving day full of fresh, whole foods and still lose weight.
2) Dine in.
Restaurant meals tend to be higher in fat and calories.
You can enjoy home cooking on the road if you rent a vacation home or pick bed and breakfast inns that let you use the kitchen.
Even taking a small electric skillet or panini machine allows you to cook eggs or vegie burgers in your room. It not only is healthier for you but will save money to to make one of your meals yourself.
3) Order light.
When you do eat out, read the menu carefully. Look for foods that are grilled, baked or steamed. Ask that no butter or oils be used. Have any sauces served on the side, and finish up with sorbet, fresh fruit or an all fruit smoothie for dessert.
4) Call ahead.
Most chefs will be happy to accommodate your dietary needs if you give advance notice. They are usually happy to make you a special dish. Let them know if you’re vegan or trying to cut down on butter and salt. I have Celiac disease so I cannot have gluten. I have found that the staff is very happy to accomodate you. Tell them a special thank you and tip well.
5) Watch portions.
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You can ask for a to go container brought to you with your entree. Put half of the food aside right away. Buy one meal and share it with a family member or friend. Order half servings of pasta or soup.
6) Limit alcohol.
Cocktails are high in sugar and other empty calories, and they can lower your willpower so you’re more likely to eat and drink way too much. Drink sparkling water or order one light drink like a glass of white wine or a Bloody Mary. You will enjoy yourself more and feel better the next day, too.
7) Eat breakfast.
A hearty morning meal will help you eat less for the rest of the day. Good choices include a big bowl of fresh fruit or eggs or oatmeal. A fresh juice with veggies and fruit is ideal.
8) Sample local cuisine.
You can still enjoy whatever foods your destination is famous for. Try an exotic fruit or unfamiliar spices. Lots of times local foods are special food conbinations of goodness.
9) Start a new habit.
It can be easier to learn a new behavior when you’re away from your same old triggers.
Start dinner with a green salad or cut down on the amount of sugar you add to your coffee. Fill up on fresh whole fruits and vegetables, plain, with no dressings or dips. Start teaching your body to really crave fresh foods.
Other Ways to Lose Weight on Vacation
1) Walk more.
Sightseeing and shopping burn calories!
Buy a guidebook or browse online to plan out your route. You can just cruze around the neighborhood and find some local color or ask the locals what are the best hidden sites to see.
2) Visit your hotel gym.
Check out hotel websites to search for the fitness features you love. Maybe you want a deluxe weightlifting gym, tennis courts, and swimming pools. See if there are fun workouts that you can’t experience on your local scene. Maybe you can try snorkeling, take a surf lesson or go horseback riding.
3) Pack gear.
You can also exercise without leaving your hotel room.
Consider light weight equipment like jump ropes and resistance bands that will be easy to carry. You can even use books or water bottles for light hand weights. Remember that resistance training like push ups and sit ups don’t require any equipment.
4) Research the neighborhood.
Search online or ask your hotel for recommendations about fun activities. You might want to take dance classes or rent bicycles for an afternoon.
5) Learn a sport.
Vacations can be an ideal time to diversify your workouts. Remember how much you loved volley ball when you were younger? Get reaquainted and have a blast! Take a class in circus arts or ultimate Frisbee. Really step out of your normal routine.
6) Check into a spa.
For the ultimate weight loss experience, spend your vacation days at a health spa. There are programs to suit any individual preference or budget. Decide on the services you want, like nutritional counseling or cooking classes. Ask about amenities, extras, and package deals. Pamper yourself. It is your vacation!
If you’re having trouble managing your weight day to day, use your time off to turn over a new leaf and change old habits. The pounds you lose on vacation will motivate you to stay slim and active throughout the year. Start my hypnosis program for weight loss as soon as your get back to just keep the ball rolling.
About the Author Angie J. Hernandez, C.Ht.
A graduate of the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, Angie J. Hernandez, C.Ht., has her private practice in Milford, Indiana. She is certified in hypnotherapy by the Hypnotherapist's Union Local 472. Angie is the author of "Weight Loss Epiphany: The Workbook", "Charlie's Cuddly Animals for Little Geniuses" and "Weight Loss Hypnosis: Lose Weight with Hypnosis Scripts & Recordings". You can find out more about Angie and how to schedule private sessions by calling (574) 658-4686.
