Whether you’re traveling for business or for fun, squeezing in your workouts can be challenging. But fitness expert Ali Cook Jackson shows us how to workout on the go!
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist
Think you don’t have time to workout while traveling? According to Ali Cook Jackson, founder, owner and head trainer of Philadelphia’s famous Never Give Up, you don’t need to hit the gym to stay up on your fitness while traveling.
Photo courtesy of Never Give Up
“What I often tell clients is that something is better than nothing. If you’re on vacation, on a business trip, or are simply on a gym hiatus, it’s not all or nothing. If you don’t have an hour to workout, make choices and embrace opportunities to squeeze in 5, 10 or 15 minutes of activity. These can and do make a difference,” Jackson tells The Voluntourist.
“So much of what we do with clients in both our award-winning boot camps and our personal training sessions uses nothing more than body weight. Those who are interested in starting a fitness routine or getting back in shape should keep in mind that it doesn’t take fancy equipment! At Never Give Up, we want to empower our clients to take their health into their own hands, wherever they are,” she added.
Jackson bases her incredible results on attainable, realistic goals and believes in a healthy work/life balance. She reveals the one item she always takes on a trip that helps her stay motivated.
Photo courtesy of Never Give Up
“When members of my team or I travel, exercise is often integrated into adjusting to a new place or city. Take a morning walk and get your bearings. Instead of ordering room service for breakfast, take a jog and find a new coffee shop. Make the decision to pack sneakers – oftentimes this simple choice can impact how much activity travelers will get while on vacation.”
Photo courtesy of Never Give Up
Another workout tip the Philadelphia based sponsored IRONMAN™ Triathlete and IRONMAN™ Certified Coach offers is this.
“If you’re staying at a hotel, ask the front desk if the hotel has any fitness classes. If not, ask the concierge for the names of the best local gyms. At Never Give Up, we offer visitors a free first class – perhaps you’ll discover something new while on the road.”
Photo courtesy of Never Give Up
Not only is Jackson a fitness guru and inspiration to many trying to achieve their fitness goals, but she believes that giving back is an integral component of life as a business owner and organizes several events a year to benefit causes like the SPCA, the National Eating Disorders Association, and local schools.
Check out the video for Jackson’s workout tips for travelers and visit Never Give Up for weekly training workout videos to do at home.