Travelling is an exciting and thrilling experience, especially when you’re there for the food. But let’s be real, it can be tough to balance all that amazing food with staying fit on the go.
I know firsthand how tempting it is to dive into plates of ceviche and lomo saltado without worrying about your usual fitness routine. But after a few days, when the guilt of not exercising on a daily basis kicks in, that’s when you know that preparation is key.
Whether you’re travelling by train through Europe or island-hopping around Greece, it’s actually not that hard to do both sightseeing and staying active.
From hiking in the Andes to wandering through bustling markets in Cusco, it’s totally possible to enjoy Peru’s culinary scene and keep up with your fitness. It doesn't have to be difficult or time-consuming to stick to a simple workout regimen. And trust me, it’s easier than you think to stay active without sacrificing the foodie experience.
After all, travel should be about balance, right?
That being said, here are 4 great travel fitness hacks I've personally used while exploring Peru.
4 Simple Travel Fitness Hacks
1. Walk Whenever Possible
Walking as much as possible is actually one of the simplest and best ways to to stay active while indulging in Peru’s amazing cuisine
Instead of hailing a taxi whenever you’re going to the market or malls nearby, consider exploring your destination on foot. It also makes it easier for you to discover off-the-beaten-paths and hidden gems like a tucked-away café in Cusco or a local cevichería that I might’ve missed otherwise.
Walking is a simple way to burn calories and meet your daily step goals without having to go to the gym or join a fitness class, which can cut off some of your vacation time. Plus, in Peru, the cities are made for exploring on foot, whether you're wandering through Lima’s markets or hiking through ancient ruins.
Plan a few days to include walking tours of the area's landmarks or self-guided treks. To encourage strolling to neighbouring sites, you can also select hotels in the heart of the city, close to stores and marketplaces.
2. Pack Lightweight, Travel-Friendly Workout Gear
Planning ahead can actually help you a lot. Staying fit while travelling will be more manageable when you’ve fit it in your itineraries.
Packing a few pieces of workout gear can make all the difference in sticking to your fitness routine. However, there are things to consider before buying workout equipment, like durability and portability.
Think about travel-friendly essentials like a resistance band, a jump rope, or a compact yoga mat. These are small, durable, and easy to slip into your luggage. They’re perfect for a quick workout in your hotel room or even a stretch session with a view of the Andes.
If you practise yoga or stretch regularly, a foldable or travel yoga mat is a great choice for in-room or outdoor practice.
By having a few of these items on hand, you can stay active no matter where you are, even if there’s no gym nearby. It’s all about balance – you can enjoy Peru’s delicious cuisine without missing out on your fitness goals!
3. Join Local Fitness Classes or Activities
Taking part in local outdoor activities or trying out fitness classes in the area is another great way to stay fit while exploring Peru’s incredible food scene.
If you’re worried about the budget, don’t worry I’ve got you. Fitness apps like ClassPass and Mindbody have a one month free trial, and often have many schedule options for drop-in classes at local gyms, yoga studios, or fitness centres.
Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel staff or Airbnb host if they know of any local fitness events or community classes—sometimes they have the inside scoop on outdoor yoga sessions or fitness boot camps happening nearby.
You could also try out local sports in some areas. Instead of rooftop yoga in Europe or Muay Thai boxing courses in Thailand, Peru offers many unique adventures like hiking in the Sacred Valley or kayaking on Lake Titicaca.
Travelling may be made more enjoyable by trying something new and being active, whether it's a yoga class by the beach or a group fitness boot camp in a park. Not to mention the opportunity to socialise and pick up fresh cultural knowledge.
4. Balance Your Nutrition While Travelling
Staying in shape while travelling involves more than simply working out at the gym; it also involves what you eat. When you’re exploring new places, especially in Peru, the local cuisine can be pretty rich and hearty, and trust me, it’s hard to resist.
Of course, you’ve got to enjoy the food (that’s half the fun!), but keeping a balanced diet will help you feel better and more energised for all the adventures ahead.
Start your day with a healthy breakfast, especially if you know you'll be trying more indulgent local foods later. Opt for nutrient-dense snacks, like fruits, nuts, or protein bars, to keep your energy steady throughout the day.
The most important one is to stay hydrated, especially if you’re travelling to hot or humid destinations. Carry a refillable water bottle to ensure you’re drinking enough water, and try to limit sugary drinks or excessive alcohol.
—
You don’t need to be too hard on yourself for not sticking to a strict workout routine while travelling—especially when you’re in Peru, with all its amazing food to try! Staying active and healthy doesn’t mean you have to hunt for gyms or follow a rigid plan.
There are many ways to do this, you can take walks while on vacation, pack workout gear, participate in local fitness courses and programs, maintain a healthy diet, and more.
Whether you're hiking in the Sacred Valley, strolling around Lima, or even lounging on the beach, you can still enjoy every delicious bite of Peru’s cuisine without feeling guilty – it's all about balance!