For some unknown reason, it appears that a majority of people believe that a cruise holiday is all about expanding waist lines, over-indulgence & hangovers! This is certainly not the case in 2012. Passengers are offered the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the healthy alternatives without missing out on any fun. A holiday at sea allows you to discover new things, make the most of state-of-the-art equipment and meet new people every day. Here at LoveCruise we have put together a list of 5 Tips to help you keep fit on your cruise holiday.
Before Departure
Do a thorough check on what facilities the cruise ship possesses before you leave. This way you can establish exactly what to take with you in terms of clothing, accessories & equipment. Try not to rely on photos from websites etc. as these are often deceiving. Check with the cruise line and request gym/swimming pool dimensions as well as any other detailed queries you may have. Do not be disappointed if you arrive on board and realise that the area isn’t going to be a suitable size to meet your requirements. Another thing to consider is pre-booking any aerobics/yoga classes (where available) you may be interested in before boarding, ensuring your place in the class.
On Board
A run is an excellent way to start your mornings on board. Certain cruise ships have 200m running tracks on a designated deck, offering joggers a beautiful opportunity to run around the ship watching the sunrise as the ship moves along the coast. If your ship doesn’t have a running track then a brisk walk, taking in the sea air, is highly invigorating. Please be aware that if you are using a GPS system, distance travelled will be inaccurate due to the fact that the ship is moving.
Gym Use
A majority of gym users will all agree that they prefer visiting the gym when it’s at its least crowded. If you are of this opinion then the best times for you to visit the gym on board are early in the morning or late at night. Another quiet time is approximately an hour or two before evening meals, perfect for those of you who are capable of getting ready quickly after your workout! Gym users who enjoy treadmill running are in for a treat. Instead of watching your usual TV programmes or listening to the same old songs on your iPod, you will be looking out onto glorious crystal clear ocean views and picturesque coastal scenery. Ensure you are careful when using the treadmill as even the large ships can occasionally roll unexpectedly.
At Shore
A common myth in the cruising world regards the shore excursions. Many passengers believe that the ‘healthy’ shore excursions will consist of boring hikes in the mountains at the crack of dawn. This really couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to cruise holidays in 2011. When thinking of active shore excursions, it is easy to forget that there are numerous pleasurable pastimes that actually provide a very intense workout. Snorkeling, Kayaking & Scuba Diving are among the popular excursions that are sure to increase your heart rate and keep you in shape during your holiday! Look to avoid the city tours that involve buses and other forms of transport and opt instead for an interesting but active walking tour. If it’s possible, find a quiet beach and go for a jog. Beach running is incredibly intense but at the same time very satisfying. Try to avoid locals trying to sell you bits and pieces!
General Tips
As well as the usual keep fit methods and rituals you may have, be sure to take part in the entertaining but incredibly beneficial on board activities such as badminton, rock climbing and even disco dancing. Dancing is a great way of burning calories, so dust off your shoes and don’t be shy! Do your best to apply basic rules, such as always taking the stairs and walking the long way back to your cabin from dinner. Be sure to stay hydrated at all times, drink plenty of water before, during and after work-outs. Take full advantage of the wide selection of healthy foods available on board. Eating healthy at home can sometimes be too time consuming or too expensive. For instance, not everyone can afford, nor has time to go to the trouble of slicing a selection of tropical fruits or smoked salmon each morning. However, on a cruise ship, these delicious, healthy foods are always available without any trouble. Treat these healthy dining options as the perfect opportunity to enjoy what you would like to do every day when you’re at home, instead of the less attractive alternatives to the plates of fried, fatty foods.
Written By Ellis Green of LoveCruise.co.uk, A UK cruise company specializing in Last Minute cruises deals and Cruises from Southampton
{ 0 comments }
Slimming Down (5)
