Sticking to a healthy eating schedule and fitting in fitness all whilst having enough time to relax can be an overwhelming mission for anyone. Adding your frequent business trips to the mix will make it seem almost impossible.
According to a study conducted by researchers at Columbia University, business travel has been linked to an increase in poor health, with obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels among the health risks.
Fortunately, your healthy lifestyle does not need to suffer just because you need to travel a lot. Here are seven ways to keep you at your best when you’re on the road:
Stay hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water, especially if you are surrounded by complimentary coffee or alcohol. As thirst is often mistaken for hunger, drinking water regularly will lower your chances of snacking, and it will also prevent headaches and keep your body functioning well.
Plan in advance
Try not to give in to the platter full of complimentary pastries at your breakfast meeting, or rely on the inflight meal to give you the nutrients you need to go ahead with your day. Instead, where possible, bring your own snacks: fruit, chopped vegetables, protein pots, cold-pressed raw fruit and nut bars, or a meal or sandwich that you made yourself. You can even call your airline to see if they have any other culinary selections available to book ahead of time.
Travel light
Try to carry as little as you can on your business trip. Pack what you need, not what you want. Travelling with a heavy case can strain your back and shoulders, making business meetings more challenging than they need to be.
Maintain a good circulation
Long journeys can cause discomfort, especially when you are sat in the same position for a long period of time. It is important to keep yourself moving as much as you can. Where possible, do periodic stretches and in-seat leg and ankle exercises. Wear compression socks to prevent swelling and DVT, especially if you’re flying for four or more hours.
Say no to junk!
It’s so easy to grab any old thing on your way to, or way from, a meeting or an all-day meeting. Try to avoid the temptation of a burger, chips and fizzy drink. Instead, opt for a nutritional meal with plenty of protein and fresh produce.
Use the hotel’s facilities
Make time to use the hotel’s excellent facilities to help rebalance your sanity. Add in a workout at the gym, and a trip to the sauna or the steam room, or book a visit to the spa and the pool to ensure your body gets the attention it deserves.
Try not to stress
Travelling can sometimes be stressful. Whether it’s due to communication difficulties, unfamiliar changes, delays and cancellations to a journey, or if you are running late to an all-important meeting. Stress can lead to worse things, such as bloating, acid reflux, or even anxiety. It is important to plan ahead; check travel times, take appropriate vitamins, supplements or herbal teas with you to prevent a situation like that from happening.
Remember, our Travel Managers are experts in their fields and can help you keep on top of your health while you fly. Feel free to get in touch on 0203 535 9290.