Since 2003, in:spa has been offering healthy holiday experiences that are totally unique and host retreats at a selection of exclusive hand-picked venues in some of the world’s most inspiring locations. A place on a scheduled group retreat costs from £2,195 per person for a week full board with all activities including daily physical activities, a one-on-one nutrition consultation, a one-on-one personal training session, daily yoga classes and two restorative massages. The next available group options depart on July 11 to Southern Spain or August 1 to the South of France. To view all departures visit www.inspa-retreats.com or call the in:spa team on 0208 968 0501.
As our thoughts turn to summer holidays, holiday health and fitness experts in:spa share their tips for bringing a bit of fitness and healthy living into your break. You can still indulge, let go and lounge around in the sun of course, but adopting a few of these tips will prevent the holiday weight gain, help you sleep better and bring you home happier and revitalised!
Before you go and packing essentials:
- Alongside your bikini and flip-flops make space in the suitcase for your trainers, sports bra, swimming costume, goggles and maybe even a yoga mat. Holidays are a great time to really enjoy a run or swim without the pressure of fitting it in around other commitments, and if you can get up for a spot of Boga (beach yoga) at sunrise you’ll see a different side of your holiday destination.
- If you are taking an iPad or other mobile device on holiday, consider downloading a good fitness programme in advance so that you can continue to follow it while on holiday. Remember to be realistic about what you can do – don’t forget to relax and enjoy your holiday!
- Do some research before you go – does your hotel have a gym or pool? Are yoga or any other classes available and if so do you need to book in advance? What else can you do in the local area? Are there any good running routes or bikes for hire?
- If you don’t fancy using the gym on holiday, consider investing in a good resistance band or even a skipping rope – both take up barely any space in a suitcase and are great for a quick burst of exercise.
While you’re on holiday:
- Avoid using the lift – find the stairs in your hotel and be sure to use them!
- Remember that many activities on holiday can also be great exercise, as well as offering a chance to discover the destination – mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, surfing lessons, tennis and even pedalos can all provide a great work-out.
- Eat a good breakfast and be sure to keep well hydrated throughout the day, especially if spending long periods in the sun.
- You’re on holiday so relax and if you want enjoy a few drinks do so, just try to steer clear of sugary sweet cocktails though and make sure you alternate alcoholic drinks with water.
- Make the most of fresh local produce in the destination, particularly fruit and vegetables that are high in antioxidants. If you’re staying near the sea also be sure to eat plenty of fresh grilled fish such as sardines, tuna and mackerel which are all high in Omega 3.
- As the saying goes “mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun”. If you are exercising while on holiday be careful not to do so at the hottest time of the day. Save yoga and running in particular for early in the morning before the temperatures are too high.
And finally…
- Get plenty of sleep! It may seem obvious but the temptation when visiting somewhere new is to race around and explore. If you want to really relax and return home feeling refreshed, go to bed early, get up late and embrace the continental habit of taking a siesta during the hottest part of the day.
To view all departures visit www.inspa-retreats.com.
(Image: pauljill)
