While vacations are often about relaxing, staying active can boost endorphins and improve your mood. Many hotels come outfitted with a gym. However, you might have to alter your routines slightly depending on what equipment is available. Below are three high-intensity workout suggestions.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Hotel Workout Routine

1. Make Your Own Circuit Workout

If the gym does not contain the same machines you are used to, perform a floor routine. Circuit training involves alternating between upper and lower body exercises to achieve balanced results and to give different sections of your body a chance to rest. Here is an example of a half-hour workout:

• Warm-up (repeat three times): 25 jumping jacks, 15 static squats, jog in place for 30 seconds
• Circuit One (repeat four times): 10 jump squats, 15 wide-legged squats, 10 high knees
• Circuit Two (repeat four times): 10-20 incline push-ups, 20 triceps dips,10-20 decline push-ups
• Circuit Three (repeat four times): 15 burpees, 20 sit-ups, 20 alternating lunges

2. Use What Weights You Have

At some hotels, the weight selection might be more limited than at your usual gym. However, you can make up for smaller weights by increasing your reps.

With a dumbbell in each hand, step up and back off a raised platform. If one is not available to you, do lunges instead. Squatting while using both hands to hold a dumbbell between your legs can also help you burn calories and tone your muscles. 

3. Spice Up Your Cardio

Most hotels come with treadmills or biking machines. To help the time go by, watch your favorite TV show on your phone or use the gym’s TV if that is an option. You can also listen to audiobooks or music. 

Every two minutes, switch up your speed. Moving from sprinting to jogging to walking helps break up the workout.

4. Go Swimming

Not everyone has access to a pool on a regular basis. Therefore, if your hotel has one, take advantage of it. Not only does swimming burn 413 calories an hour for someone 130 pounds, but it does it while being gentle on your joints. It’s also an activity you can easily enjoy with your family.

If you’re seeking a beautiful hotel with a fitness center that competes with your local gym, visit Stevens Inn located in Carlsbad, NM. Besides their fitness center, you’ll enjoy a free breakfast buffet, complimentary high-speed internet access in your room, an outdoor pool, and a chic lounge complete with a dance floor. Visit the website to learn more about their amenities or call (575) 887-2851 to reserve your stay.