In an ideal world, I would have two months of no plans, no temptations, nothing to do but eat healthy, cook clean meals, work out non stop and get in the best shape. In reality, when it rains it pours aka when I’m kinda busy, I’m suddenly non stop busy and in true ‘Riley Fashion’ I keep piling things on my plate.
As you know I am training for a half marathon and one of the most important thing in my training is to stay consistent.
When I’m on the go, unprepared or super busy, it’s when I struggle the most with healthy choices. I made a promise to myself this year to really start taking care of my body and making better choices. I have been brainstorming this post for a few months and finally feel I have enough tips and kinda mastered the art of healthy-isa living while traveling.
Food.
Making healthy eating choices is SO hard when you’re unable to eat at home. If you live in the South you probably know healthy choices are few and far between, especially if you’re also on a budget.
My first tip is to be prepared. If you know you’re going on a road trip, bring snacks, prepacked meals (lettuce wrap sandwiches are great for on the go), huge water bottles, nuts, etc. If you’re a road trip snacker like me, I hit up Whole Foods for some healthy munchies.. grab a Larabar instead of the usual gas station candy bar.
If you can’t prepare, don’t worry it happens! Look for healthy options.. I know, I know it’s hard. Here’s my go to list for healthy-ish eating on the go..
-Panera
-Whole Foods
-Chick Fil A
-Target! They have some premade salads in the deli section, some have fresh produce or even better snack options than a gas station.
-Starbucks They have some great grab and go options that are a million times better than fast food. I love the Thai Chicken Wrap
-Chipotle/Moe’s/Salsarita Style Mexican Get a taco salad with grilled chicken, black beans, veggies and salsa as the dressing. May not be as healthy and sodium free as homemade but still better than other options.
-Grocery Stores I know this sounds like a crazy pit stop on a road trip but a great place to grab premade salads, fruit, veggies and rotisserie chicken
Another way I like to be prepared is to check out a menu before we head to the restaurant and make a decision. If I choose before I’m starving, I’m more likely to make a healthier decision. Being prepared always leads me to better choices.
Remember to drink LOTS and LOTS of water. A gallon a day! I usually grab a 50 oz water bottle and use it for a week or two (wash it in the dish washer) I love that it doesn’t have a straw so it’s easy to chug, I try to section it off 1 before lunch, one before 5 pm and 1 with my dinner.
Also, try to make small changes at every meal and you will be surprised how it becomes a habit. If you do have to eat out, choose something healthy or choose a salad and split a side of fries with a friend, get grilled chicken instead of fried, etc. Also if you know you’re going out for a big dinner/party, try to eat super strict during the day (healthy, lots of greens and proteins!) and try to choose the healthiest drink option available, avoiding sugary mixed drinks.
Exercise.
Exercise can be both easier and harder while on the go. If you’re on a long road trip, it’s easy to feel restless. Try to get out and walk around at every pit stop and when you reach your destination, try to walk as much as possible. We’re all guilty of the three block Uber, but seriously avoid it at all costs!
When you are in a new city, use walking to explore as much as possible! Not only will you get to soak in your new surroundings but you’ll get lots of steps in too. If there is a park or part of town you’re dying to see, try to schedule a run or jog through it in the morning… killing two birds with one stone! If you get bored with running, see about renting bikes! So many cities offer cheap bike rentals which is so fun and makes for the perfect Instagram. 😉
If you’re not a runner, there are so many great apps you can get for hotel workouts or just look on Pinterest (Pinterest = forever my true love), if you want a great workout in a short amount of time you should try Kayla Itsine’s BBG it’s KILLER.
Besides finding a workout to do, it’s mainly important to schedule when you will workout and stick to it like a meeting or deadline. Think about the end goal and how much better you will feel afterwards. Healthier, stronger and ready to go!
What are some ways you stay healthy on the go?! I’m always looking for new tricks to keep up my sleeves! xo
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