Going on a business trip can be a treat. Seeing new places, meeting new
people, and just being able to get out of the usual office setting can
be a refreshing experience. The downside to this, however, is the negative
effects it can bring to your health. During a business trip, you most
likely spend long periods of time on the road or in a plane, which can
cause a strain on your back, neck, or other areas of your body. Constant
change in time zone can mess up your mental state and sleeping pattern.
Food choices are often limited to hotel or conference food. Your days
are usually packed with meetings and other events that keep you sitting
or stagnant for long periods of time. Thinking about your health becomes
least of your priority when away on business.
Staying healthy on a business trip can be challenging. That is why we list
down some helpful tips to keep you fit even if you’re on the go!
1. Watch What You Eat
Being on a business trip limits your food choices especially if you want
to eat healthy. The best solution to this is to be mindful of your options.
Choose foods that are steamed, baked, or grilled. Ask to substitute brown
rice for white rice, whole wheat bread for white bread, etc. These requests
are easily accommodated in most hotels and restaurants.
2. Pack Healthy Snacks Ahead of Time
During business trips, time is a luxury. Days are usually packed with meetings
and other work functions. There are times when you miss lunch and you
turn to the available pastries served during the meeting. Avoid falling
into such temptation by bringing some healthy snacks of your own. A protein
bar or some unsalted nuts are easy to carry and can keep you full until
you find a healthier food option.
3. Workout at the Hotel
Hotels nowadays usually have gym amenities specifically for travelers who
want to workout. You can check with your hotel ahead of time about this.
If the hotel you’re staying at has no gym amenities, you can try
these workouts instead:
-
Swimming – Studies show that swimming actually burns more calories than jogging.
An hour in the pool can burn up to 700 calories depending on the stroke you use.
-
Running – A 30-minute run every day can keep you energized and fit without
the hassle of going to the gym. You can ask your hotel concierge for running
tracks or local parks within the area.
-
Resistance bands – These lightweight exercise bands are easy to pack, making it travel-friendly.
Adding resistance to simple exercises such as a push-up or a pull-up can
greatly enhance your workout. It’s like using gym equipment from
the comfort of your hotel room.
4. Walk When You Can
If the venue of your meeting is just a short distance from your hotel,
choose walking instead of driving or getting a taxi to get there. Research
shows that a 30-minute walk lowers your blood sugar levels as well as
your blood pressure. Walking is also the best way to explore a new city.
It can lead you to discover great, healthy restaurants or a tucked away
local spot.
5. Drink Plenty of Water
You can avoid a lot of unnecessary calories just by drinking water. It
can also improve the appearance of your skin despite the lack of sleep.
Try to resist ordering sugary drinks or alcohol and opt to drink water instead.
Going on a business trip does not mean that you have to leave your healthy
habits behind. Staying healthy on a business trip is difficult, but achievable
as long as you keep these helpful tips in mind.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.