10 moves for an active vacation

Staying active on vacation doesn't have to be putting on your workout clothes and exercising. After all, the benefits of vacation include taking a break from your regular routine and having fun. So how do you vacation and still incorporate exercise? I know, that's easier said than done, right! But building in physical activity into your vacation has significant benefits including enhanced energy levels, appetite control, new opportunities to explore your destination and minimizing travelers' constipation. Try my 10 moves to stay active on your next vacation and reap the added benefits!

Move 1: Make a plan.

Start by finding a hotel or rental with amenities such as a pool or fitness center, that is located near a beach or park where you can easily fit in many activities, or near the city center so you can walk to your destination.

Move 2: Pack appropriately.

If you don't pack your tennis shoes, you aren't going to use them. But it's a vacation, so keep it simple—bring your pedometer, resistance band or exercise video, but leave the dumbbells at home. Bring an inflatable beach ball for games on the beach or in the pool.

Move 3: Do a little homework.

Scout out activities offered at or nearby your hotel or resort to do between piña coladas. Many vacation spots have outdoor activities that will get your heart rate up such as hiking, Frisbee, tennis, golf or swimming.  Some spots even offer organized group activities like yoga on the beach or water aerobics for guests.

Move 4: Expand your horizons.

This is a great way to add activity and get outside of your regular routine. Check off an activity on your bucket list like snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding or surfing. Go out for a night of dancing—learn to salsa or swing dance.

Move 5: Explore on foot or bike.

Rent a bicycle or take a walking tour of your destination. This can be the best way to really discover the best coffee joint, restaurant, boutique or flea market find.

Move 6: Bring a step tracker.

Make a conscious effort to get active each day by tracking your steps and trying to beat your best from the day before. You may surprise yourself how the steps will add. Walk to dinner instead of taking a cab. Park your car instead of using the valet. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Move 7: Involve your family and friends.

Having people with you makes it more enjoyable and more likely that you will stay active. Challenge each other by trying a new activity, spend a day at the zoo or an amusement park, plan pool time or try geo-caching at the State Park.

Move 8: Focus your efforts.

Set aside 20 to 30 minutes during the day where you will exercise with moderate intensity, then you can return to relaxing with your book, lounge chair or pool float.

Move 9: Take care of yourself.

You won't want to be active if you aren't feeling well enough to do so. Give your body the energy it needs to want to stay active, drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and don't forget to sleep.

Move 10: Have fun.

Enjoy yourself, after all it is a vacation. Make realistic goals and even if you don't meet them, don't be down on yourself. Just making a conscious effort to include physical activity in your vacation is sometimes enough. You can always get back on track when you return home.