It can be hard to stick with your normal routine when you’re traveling. Trips and vacations are often a time to relax and enjoy yourself, and your daily routine may go out the window. The good news is, you don’t have to pause your progress just because you're away from home. There are ways to stay active during travel without missing out on fun. 

This guide will show you how to:

• Stay active during travel without a full workout routine
• Use exercise to stay comfortable during travel
• Keep up your energy when you’re away from home
• Get back back into your routine after a trip

Travel can shift your routine, and that’s okay

When you’re away from your normal environment, it’s normal for your schedule to look different. You might find yourself:

• Spending long hours in a car or on a plane
• Sleeping in a new place with a different rhythm
• Caring for family
• Joining group activities

Some vacations are filled with movement, while others include long periods of sitting still. Both experiences can leave you feeling stiff or low in energy. But small,

4 of the best travel exercises for seniors

The key to staying consistent on a trip or vacation is to focus on easy travel exercises that seniors can do anywhere. You don’t need to spend hours in a hotel gym, or have access to special equipment. 

Here are four ways to stay active during travel:

1. Stretch. Gentle stretches in the morning can help you release stiffness and wake up your body. It can also be helpful to stretch after any long activities, whether that’s a plane ride or a sightseeing tour. 
2. Take short walks after meals. Research shows that taking a walk after eating can help you regulate your blood sugar and digest your food more easily. It can also help lower your blood pressure.
3. Make time for quick bodyweight routines. Bold has a library of classes that you can do on the go, no equipment needed. 
4. Try breathing exercises. These are especially helpful for lowering travel-related stress. 

These simple exercises for travel support your body, your mood, and your energy levels. Even 5 minutes can help you feel your best on the road.

Suggested class: 6 min Mobility: Hips

How to stay consistent while you’re away

You don’t need a full workout session to benefit from exercise during travel. A few minutes here and there can keep you strong, flexible, and energized throughout your trip. Some ways to stay active during travel:

• Plan ahead: Schedule short sessions before your trip, so movement is built into your day. Knowing when you’ll move makes it easier to stay on track.
• Bring movement with you: Choose travel-friendly classes that can be done in a hotel room, guest room, or small space. Save them ahead of time so they’re easy to access.
• Adapt your movement to your day:
• Stretch before a long drive or flight
• Do a short yoga class or mobility work warm-up before a day of walking or standing
• Practice meditation or breathing exercises to relax in the evening

Suggested class: 7 min Flexibility: Gentle Stretch

Getting back into routine after your trip

When you come back from vacation, it can be hard to return to your regular routine. Don’t be hard on yourself if the transition is hard! Tips for returning to your routine:

• Start with a class or activity you enjoy. This will help you get back into the habit of regular exercise. 
• Set small, achievable goals instead of aiming for perfection
• Pair your exercise with something you already do daily (after coffee, before lunch, etc.)

Remember, getting back to your healthy habits isn’t about making up for “lost” time. It’s about re-establishing the rhythm that works for you now.

Suggested class: 13 min Dance: World Rhythms

Travel isn’t a disruption, it’s part of the journey

Life happens, and routines change. Building healthy habits isn’t about repeating the exact same schedule every week. It’s about staying connected to your goals, no matter where you are.

Whether you’re in your living room or halfway across the world, your commitment to movement matters. Every walk, stretch, or breath exercise you do while traveling supports your health, energy, and confidence.