Vacations should be healthy

     By Kim Springer
     View columnist
      A well-planned vacation does not necessarily have to derail your current exercise and eating program. By looking at a variety of vacation ideas, you might find that a getaway might fit in with your lifestyle and give it a jump-start.
      First, decide what types of activities you are willing to try while vacationing. If you have always wanted to go snorkeling or to hike the Grand Canyon, make this the center point of your vacation.
      Planning other adventures around these focal points will be easy. A fitness vacation does not have to include total physical exertion every day. The point is to plan a trip that includes fun and interesting activities besides just drinking alcohol and lying on the beach.
      Spa vacations are always a great idea if you want all the planning of your trip done for you. Spas range in prices and the agendas vary depending on your commitment level to exercise.
      If you want to exercise from dawn to dusk, there are several spas that can accommodate you. Hiking, horseback riding, swimming and exercise classes will keep you busy and each day will be unique.
      Spas are also great in that the food served is healthy and will suit your dietary needs. Some people look at a week at a spa as a way to jump-start a new eating plan. Of course, it will take a lot more work when you return to your regular schedule to maintain your newly learned eating skills.
      Activity orientated vacations are perfect for families. By choosing your destination carefully, all members of your family will be able to keep active and stay fit.
      Many hotels offer programs for kids that are similar to those found at summer camps. While the kids are engrossed in their activities, parents can slip away for a quick water sport lesson, a jog on the beach or a day in the gym.
      If you are involved in a particular recreational sport, try to find tournaments in other cities where you can participate.
      For example, many basketball tournaments are three-day events and some allow individuals to enter without a team. This is a great way to enjoy a sport you already love while taking in the sights of a new city.
      Softball tournaments are also very popular weekend events. Get your current team to sign up for an out-of-town tournament and make your arrangements together. If one spouse is engrossed in sports, make sure that the other has plenty of activities of their own.
      Cruises are also great vacations and can offer fitness-minded individuals many exercise opportunities. Most ships now have organized fitness classes and a well-equipped gym.
      The point of a vacation, however, is to break away from your regular routine so do not force yourself to hit the gym every day.
      Check out the ship's outdoor walking course and investigate any port-of-call destinations. Choose ones that involve walking tours or water sports.
      By getting involved you will be exercising without feeling that it is dragging down your vacation.
      Remember, the little things done during the day count. For example, take the stairs in your hotel, walk to any nearby meetings and avoid splurging on every meal.
     
     Kim Springer and her husband, Mike, are certified by ACE, NASM and ACSM as personal trainers. They can be reached at 233-9442, by fax at 233-9446 or by e-mail at springtrain@netscape.net.