When most people think about cruises, food and lots of it, is the image that immediately
comes to mind.
And I am no different.
My family and I love to travel and cruising is one easy and convenient way to sample lots of
new–as well as old–destinations.
The fact that we live fairly close to our city’s pier makes cruising our go-to, quick trip choice,
especially when we want to celebrate a special occasion or simply get away for a few days
without dealing with the hassles of flying.
This time we decided to take a Norwegian (NCL) cruise to the Bahamas to celebrate my husband’s
birthday.
Also the fact that we celebrated two weeks after the date was of little significance to us.
What mattered was that we were off to warm, sunny weather, all the food we could eat and all
the fun we could bear.
What’s not to love!
Of course, I was a bit worried about gaining a few pounds while cruising, even though I eat a simple,
whole food, plant-based diet.
For some reason, because the food is free, plentiful and ever-present, I tend to eat and drink much
more–and much more often–when I am on a cruise ship!
With 13 gourmet restaurants and several all you can eat buffets, eating seems like nonstop sport.
And despite the fact that I rarely indulge in dessert on land, the delectable treats served on board are
hard to resist.
However, I wasn’t worried.
I had a plan to burn those extra calories with my surefire NCL cruise fitness program.
Here’s what worked for me:
5 Fun and Easy Ways to Fit in Fitness on a Cruise
1. Always Take the Stairs
On a 13 level cruise ship skipping the elevators and taking the stairs everywhere, everyday was
my number one fun way to fit in fitness.
Whether I was going upstairs or down, stair climbing was my number one way to burn calories–
no equipment required.
2. Work Out on the Cardio Fitness Equipment
One the of the great perks of my cruise ship was the fully-equipped fitness center.
Most of my favorite machines were there so a good workout was just a few floors away each
day.
Since they featured a monitor I could catch the news or a favorite show at the same time.
My fitness center routine usually included:
*60 minutes on the treadmill on a high incline at 4.5 mph
*30 minutes on the elliptical machine
*30 minutes on the bike
3. Take a Fitness Class
This ship’s fitness program included daily fitness classes including:
*yoga
*stretching
*ab workout
*total body conditioning
*spin classes
*personal training
I tried to squeeze in one class per day depending upon our itinerary and port stops.
4. Do Some Resistance Work
Fortunately, our cruise ship had a separate weight room equipped with free weights, medicine balls,
resistance bands and dumbbells.
They also had some of my favorite resistance machines in the same room with the cardio equipment.
5. Walk Around the Ship
Another great way to exercise while cruising was to do laps around the cruise ship on the
outdoor walking deck.
I also race-walked completely around the ship a few times, by following interior aisles, instead of
going directly to my stateroom, admired the art on the walls and traded greetings with passengers
and crew.
With all of the delectable food on board, we try to get all of our family and friends involved in being more
active during the cruise.
Of course, it is important to make sure to take out Travel Insurance for Seniors when you are traveling
with older family members.
Relax, Unwind and Repeat!
On most days after working out, I relaxed in the spa’s steam room, sauna and whirlpool bath.
Sometimes I treated myself to a soothing hot stone , herbal or aromatherapy massage.
Finally, I stretched out on a heated stone lounge and sipped herbal tea and citrus-infused water.
That was my reward!
How do you burn calories and fit in fitness while traveling?
Share your thoughts, tips and experiences with us.
“Shared on Turn it Up Tuesday”
“Shared on #wowlinkup Workout Wednesdays”
On several of our cruises I managed to indulge in a few delightful desserts but maintained my weight the same way you did!
Michelle @ On A Wing And A Prayer
Hi Michelle,
Yes, isn’t it great how convenient it is to stay fit on a cruise! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I appreciate it.