Blog
Life Out of a Suitcase
Sunday 27th January 2019
How do you stay healthy and fit when you spend your life staying at hotels? Hotels meals are often butter laden, the porridge is served with milk, and I prefer mine with water. I am a transitioning vegan, and I don't think a plate of veggies from a hotel is healthy - all that butter. While I do love the yummy cookies they serve on arrival especially at the Hilton hotel, I wouldn't recommend them as a healthy choice, nor are they vegan! Unfortunately, I am a hypocrite as I indulged the receptionist who offered me two cookies when I arrived late at a hotel in Glasgow. I tried to justify my habit by agreeing with the receptionist that it is late and I have had a very long day.
Is it hard to live a healthy life out of a suitcase? Yes, but it is not impossible! Last year I frequented 98 hotels and training rooms. During that time, there were a lot of somewhat unhealthy breakfasts, and I didn't take much care with what I ate. Plus, I felt like this calorific food was my reward for being away from home and my other half, and I totally deserved it (in my opinion at least). It is okay to indulge once in a while, after all, we are only human. However, living in a hotel is not a green light to eat what you want, when you want.
The result of the food choices reflected in my gained weight, and I felt lethargic. I could have used the hotel gym, but each time I thought about it, I was too exhausted to go. My daily routine consisted of me delivering training while standing for 8 hours and to me, that was more than enough exercise - most days I got in 7,000 steps!
Eventually, I decided to quit with the excuses and take charge. When you're travelling and staying away in hotels, it can make being healthy hard. At the start of January, I had several weeks at home which I completely relished. It gave me the time to take stock, take action and get organised. I cleared out my wardrobes, cleaned out my kitchen cupboards (how many bags of out of date caster sugar can one have!) and made space in my garage. It was so cathartic. Finally, I made a plan on how I was going to get a handle on my health and fitness.
As I write this, I'm on a train to London, and I'm staying for two days. I packed my little Tupperware box of porridge, and a small food bag with my mixed seeds, and an 'odd' spoon that doesn't go with my cutlery set - one I don't mind losing! There'll be no excuse for having to grab something (unhealthy) on the run between Tubes. Not to mention the cost!
Below are some of the things that work for me on my journey to staying healthy while on the road. Believe me, they are sustainable.
1. Limit the stuff you pack: This was a hard one for me initially as having a shoe collection that would make any Imelda Marcos enthusiast jealous (200 pairs!). I like to pack several to go with different outfits. I usually take at least 10 pairs going on holiday for a week! But then I thought to myself what do I value more right now? Standing in killer (literally!) heels all day or making room for healthy food and snacks in my case. I chose the latter! One pair, two tops, of black shoes goes with almost every outfit!
2. Get moving: Even if it's just a length or two in the pool (if the hotels have these). A walk around the grounds - some have beautiful golf courses. And yes, if you can do a workout in the gym. Whether it's in the morning time or the evening and even if you feel exhausted, the endorphins will kick in! Anything but ordering room service!
3. Check in with your network: Over the years I've built a vast network of friends and colleagues pretty much across the Globe and indeed the UK. When I'm away from home, I think about who I know that lives close by. Not only does this get you out of your hotel room, but it also means you're connecting with others and stimulating your brain - not bored and eating! Sure, you might have a glass of vino (although I'm so focused at the moment I'm not drinking) but because you are gabbing away you might not overindulge - on your own nobody is going to see the starter, main course and mahoovise brownie you scoff whilst convincing yourself you 'deserve' it!
4. Stick to a diet plan: This can be a tough one to handle as unhealthy food can be very appealing. One of the ways of coping is to keep a food diary to help you focus on what meals are healthy and when to have them. By sticking to your diet plan, you will not have to worry about losing your figure. Good news, you tend to adjust to them seamlessly after a couple of months.
5. Explore the City: Rather than just staying in your hotel home, you can decide to check out exciting spots across the city. I would suggest you visit a museum as they can be very relaxing while they stimulate your senses. I personally love to explore museums whenever I can. Therefore, using my idle breaks to indulge in some tourist activity is always a healthy alternative. If you need help finding a place, simply use the Google Maps or ask the hotel attendants for the nearest attractions