Camping trip, check. Tent and supplies packed, check. Workout routine ready, not so much. But, with no gym or equipment, what is the healthy camper left to do? From planning ahead to recognizing natural resources, here's how you can stay fit while camping.
Plan it Ahead of Time
You know you want to maintain some version of your workout routine at the campground, so why not plan it just as you would at home? If you haven't reserved a site yet, check to see which campground has the most active options. Some ways to stay fit include:
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Trail running
- Biking
- Paddleboarding
- Canoeing/Kayaking
Once you know what's available, you can plan your workouts and even split them up by muscle group. Hit the trails for cardio, swim laps in the water for a full-body routine, or take a kayaking trip to work your arms.
More: How to Use Hiking to Improve Your Fitness
Fend for Yourself
No, this doesn't mean hunting your own dinner—though most campgrounds do allow for fishing. Some of the simplest tasks prove to be the easiest ways to stay fit at the campground.
- Chop wood: Instead of buying pre-chopped wood, bring a few large blocks and chop them yourself. You'll work muscles you never felt in the gym.
- Take out the trash: Many campgrounds have a trash service that takes all your bags to the closest dumpster. Instead, take it over yourself, if possible.
Take Your Relaxing Elsewhere
Sure, vacation is all about relaxing, but you don't have to sit around your campsite. Find the closest beach and see if you can walk or bike there. Better yet, fill up your backpack, hike to the mountain summit, and unwind there with lunch. Relaxing is much more rewarding when you worked hard to do so.
