That's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.comThat's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.com/media/feedlogo.gifThat's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.comen-usCopyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Green Your Next Triphttp://www.thatsfit.com/2011/04/15/green-your-next-trip/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/04/15/green-your-next-trip/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/04/15/green-your-next-trip/#commentsFiled under: ,

As much as I love to travel, I always feel a little guilty when I pack my bags. I think about what my actions are doing to the earth, and I cringe. I fly frequently, after all, and although I try to be as green as possible when I travel, I know the earth would rather me stay at home. Case in point: Air traffic accounts for about 10 percent of greenhouse gases worldwide, according to the International Ecotourism Society. Fortunately, though, you can make any trip more environmentally friendly just by tweaking your habits. After all, keeping the planet fit and healthy is as important as keeping yourself in tip-top shape. Take these six strategies on your next vacation:

1) BYOB: You need to stay hydrated when you travel. But quit buying bottled water (yet do give yourself a little credit if you use that bottle your entire vacation) and pack a reusable water bottle, preferably BPA-free. You can't go through airport security with the bottle fully loaded, but you can walk through with it empty. Love coffee or tea? Bring a reusable mug, too.

2) Go direct: When booking airline travel, choose direct flights as much as possible. Planes burn less fuel when they don't have to stop and start as much.

3) Be your own motor: Walk or bike whenever you can in your destination. To make things more fun, wear that pedometer and see how many miles you can rack up on your vacation. I've done this for years and have a running competition for the most pedometer-friendly destination. (New York City, by the way, tops that list, especially since it's not unheard of for me to walk 80 blocks roundtrip in an evening just to go to dinner!)

4) Unplug: And no, I'm not talking about disconnecting from your SmartPhone (although you should do that, too). I mean literally unplug any lights or appliances (like the hairdryer and coffee maker) when you leave your hotel room. Even when they're off, they're still sucking power. At the very least, flip off all lights, radio and TV whenever you're not there.

5) Reuse those towels: This one's a little tricky because even in hotels that tout eco-friendly programs where you're asked to hang your towel if you don't want it changed, they still snatch it. Leaving a note for the cleaning staff doesn't help either (I've tried). My suggestion? Place the do not disturb sign on your door and skip the daily room service.

6) Don't take a hiatus from recycling: Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you can't recycle. Ask your hotel what items it recycles (it helps if you've chosen eco-friendly accommodations) and be on the lookout for recycling bins as you explore the area, especially if you've purchased any plastic bottles, the majority of which sadly wind up in landfills.

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]]>environmentfit-travelgreengreen traveltravelKaren AspFri, 15 Apr 2011 11:00:00 ESTGreat Hotel Gymshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/04/great-hotel-gyms/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/04/great-hotel-gyms/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/03/04/great-hotel-gyms/#commentsFiled under: ,

GymElysian Hotel

Sticking to your regular workouts isn't easy when you're on the road. If you can book a hotel with a fitness center, your battle's halfway won. Here are four great hotel gyms you'll love on your next trip:

Aria Resort & Casino
Las Vegas, Nev.

Working up a sweat might not top the to-do lists of most Sin City visitors, but the Aria makes it easy -- and enjoyable -- to knock out a good workout. Aria's fitness center features dozens of high-end cardio machines and strength equipment. For a bonus, sign up for one of its innovative fitness classes like kettlebell training or the indoor hike where a trainer leads you on a hike through the massive complex, stopping at various places to do step-ups (like in the lobby!), tricep dips or sit-ups.

Elysian Hotel
Chicago, Ill.

The Elysian boasts one of the classiest hotel gyms I've seen. Not only does it have a full line of cardio and weight machines, but it also has a Pilates and Gyrotonics studios. Private and semiprivate instruction is available. There are also a handful of fitness classes and personal training sessions where the trainer takes you outside for a workout. And there is a lap pool with colorful mosaic tiles where you can do laps or take an aquatics class.

Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne, Fla.

You'll find high-end cardio and strength equipment, but the real draw is the class roster. Standards like spinning and Iyengar yoga appear on the menu, as do specialty classes. For instance, try Poolates, which is Pilates in the pool. Don't let it fool you: It's tougher than it looks. Pilate moves that I'd mastered on land became difficult in the water. Or try the Atlantic Walk, during which your instructor will take you for a walk on the beach and teach you how to walk tall, using Pilates principles. For something more intense, hit Water Works for a high-energy pool workout.

The Fairmont San Francisco Hotel
San Francisco, Calif.

This is your typical fitness center with all of the bells and whistles you'll need to get in a good sweat. The club is actually a Club One Fitness Center for San Fran residents that Fairmont guests can use. Here's the cool part, though: If you sign up for the Fairmont's President's Club, which is free, you get complimentary access to the fitness center and classes, which include aerobics, Pilates, yoga and spinning.

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]]>fit-travelfitnessgym hotelsGymHotelstravelweight lossWeightLossworking outWorkingOutKaren AspFri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST5 Hot Vacation Packages to Get Fit in the Sunhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/5-hot-vacation-packages-to-get-fit-in-the-sun/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/5-hot-vacation-packages-to-get-fit-in-the-sun/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/02/04/5-hot-vacation-packages-to-get-fit-in-the-sun/#commentsFiled under: ,

Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

Winter getting you down? There's no better pick-me-up than sunshine. Combine that with an array of fitness activities, and you've got the perfect prescription for dumping those blues. But where should you go? Check out these five fitness-oriented, fun-in-the-sun packages from warm-weather resorts:

Hilton Hotels and Resorts
Where: Caribbean and Latin American destinations
The deal: Hilton wants to help you keep those New Year's resolutions. Through its Get Fit Resolution package, you get seven nights' accommodations, a personal trainer for the duration of your stay, fitness diary, healthy menu options, free fitness center access and a 50- to 60-minute relaxation massage. Rates (for double occupancy) range from $189 to $559 per night, depending on location.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
Where: Scottsdale, Ariz.
The deal: Feel like a world-class athlete when you sign up for the Triathlon Prep Package. (Even if you have no aspirations to compete in a triathlon, you're still welcome!) The package, which starts at $1,788, includes three nights' accommodations, a daily power breakfast, three days of training with Sanctuary's expert team (each day will focus on a different activity -- swimming, biking or running) with core training, nutritional evaluation and three different massages.

More Fit Travel

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
Where: Houston, Texas
The deal: Book the Girlfriends Getaway package ($305 per night) and you'll get a little pampering to ease those active muscles. Your one-night stay includes choice of manicure or pedicure, 50-minute facial or Swedish massage and complimentary glass of wine during spa treatments. Plus, you get unlimited access to the Houstonian Fitness Club, where you'll find a huge list of yoga, Pilates, cardio and dance classes.

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows
Where: Big Island of Hawaii
The deal: Why not head to the home of the Ironman to whip that body into tip-top shape? Through the Iron-Fit Program, you'll get use of a tri-road bike, personal trainer and sports massage every day. You can also take advantage of Mauna Lani's fitness center, its 25-meter lap pool, a private beach for ocean swimming and nearby roads for cycling. Nightly rates start at $700, and a three-night minimum is required.

Red Mountain Resort & Spa
Where: St. George, Utah
The deal: If you're seeking warmth, look no further than this desert wellness spa, which is hosting a Fitness Bootcamp package that starts at $299 per person/per night (double occupancy). The seven-day program features daily guided morning hikes, three daily nutritious meals, unlimited fitness classes, healthy life classes, personal discovery activities, specialty boot camp classes, heart rate workshop (with a heart rate monitor you keep), 50-minute personal training session, and 50-minute Red Rockhikers massage. Dates for 2011 boot camps are March 20-27, May 15-22, June 19-26, September 18-25 and November 13-20.

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]]>active vacationsfit-travelFitness packages at resortstravelWinter bluesKaren AspFri, 04 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST6 Activities to Burn Calories in the Snowhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/07/6-activities-to-burn-calories-in-the-snow/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/07/6-activities-to-burn-calories-in-the-snow/http://www.thatsfit.com/2011/01/07/6-activities-to-burn-calories-in-the-snow/#commentsFiled under: ,

Carl Scofield

Nothing beats a ski vacation. There's the snow, the skiing, the apres ski -- what's not to love? Yet even ski vacations have their drawbacks, namely the fact that you'll no doubt beat yourself up, which is why every great ski bum deserves a break -- and not just in the hot tub! Escape from the slopes for a day to discover other fun activities. And if you can't get away for a ski vacation, make the most of the snow storm and burn extra calories by building a snowman in your backyard, shoveling the driveway or taking a walk around the neighborhood -- just be sure to bundle up!

What: Mush it up
Where: Breckenridge Ski Resort in Breckenridge, Colo.

You've never taken a dog-sledding adventure like the one you'll have with Good Times Adventure. The tour is run as a relay so you'll switch off between driving the dogs (by yourself) and riding on a passenger sleigh. Want to really crank that heart rate up? Volunteer to mush up the hills.

What: Go zip-lining
Where: Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort in Whistler, British Columbia

Fly through the rain forest and over Fitzsimmons Creek with Ziptrek Ecotour. Choose from one of four tours offers year round, including the Mammoth Tour which spans 10 zip lines over a 4.5-hour period, or the Twilight Tour where headlamps and more than 4,000 LEDs light your way.

What: Work up a sweat cross-country skiing
Where: Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Mich.

Crystal Mountain's cross-country ski trails are famous in the Midwest -- and rightly so. Ski more than 40 kilometers of groomed trails that range from gentle treks through trees to steep ascents and descents on black-diamond trails. When you're done, hit the Crystal Spa, the Midwest's only LEED-certified spa.

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What: Stomp through the snow
Where: Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah

Get your feedbag on: One of the most unique experiences at Deer Valley happens in the Empire Canyon Lodge. It's called Fireside Dining, and throughout the evening, you'll fill up on four Swiss-style courses served from five stone fireplaces. First, though, build your appetite on a guided moonlight snowshoe tour on the mountain through White Pine Touring. The tour winds up at the lodge's door so you can head right to dinner.

What: Be a kid again
Where: Copper Mountain Resort in Copper Mountain, Colo.

Head to the Barn at Woodward at Copper, a ski and snowboard training camp, and you can jump on trampolines, dive into foam pits and perform tumbling tricks on padded mats. Learn how to do all of this in a 75-minute intro class. Even if you're not into skiing or boarding, playing on the equipment is a blast.

What: Soothe physical and mental stress
Where: Mont Tremblant Resort in Quebec, Canada

For the ultimate in relaxation, spending at least half a day at the Scandinave Spa is a must. The concept is simple: Alternate between hot and cold treatments before unwinding in one of the cozy relaxation areas. Repeat the cycle as many times as you want. For hot, choose the eucalyptus steam bath, Finnish sauna or hot bath. Then move to a cool rinse in a shower, waterfall or the Diable River.

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]]>cross country skiingfit-travelwinter activitieszip-liningKaren AspFri, 07 Jan 2011 14:00:00 ESTFit Traveler Gift Guidehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/03/fit-traveler-gift-guide/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/03/fit-traveler-gift-guide/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/12/03/fit-traveler-gift-guide/#commentsFiled under: ,

Call me Scrooge, but I'm not a fan of the holidays. Sure, I'm all for getting kissed under the mistletoe and roasting chestnuts over an open fire, but I dread the gift-giving. I stress too much about what I'm giving everybody on my list. Sound familiar? I hear you, which is why I've compiled a list of the best gifts for the fit, intrepid traveler on your list. Happy stress-free shopping!

www.sophiesphilosophies.com

Fit Travel Workout DVD ($19.99)
There's no excuse for not exercising when you give your loved one this easy-to-pack DVD. Created by New York City-based personal trainer Nicole Glor, the DVD, which was filmed in various locations around the world, features a 30-minute, no-equipment workout that alternative between full-body strength exercises and cardio intervals.

James Berglie

FitKit Travel ($29.99)
Want to help your loved one maintain his or her fitness while traveling? Give them the FitKit Travel, a 15-ounce, portable fitness kit that includes an exercise band, resistance tube, jump rope, pedometer with safety alarm, reflective arm band and ID tag. The kit also includes fitness, nutrition and safety tips.

Klipsch

Klipsch Image S4 headphones ($79.99)
Music not only makes working out more enjoyable, it can also motivate people to move longer, per several studies. So why not equip your fit traveler with a pair of headphones that makes music sound better, blocks external noises (great if they're sitting on a plane or working out in a noisy hotel fitness center) and fit snugly in the ear so they don't fall out mid-workout?

Gregory

Gregory Miwok/Maya ($99)
If you've got an outdoor enthusiast on your list, check out this daypack -- the Miwok for men and Maya for women. Both have built-in hydration systems (18 liters for Miwok and 17 liters for Maya) and plenty of room for gear, perfect for hiking, biking or running and as an airline carry-on. There's also a green advantage: Gregory's bags are toxin free and contain no harmful PVC or ozone-depleting chemicals.

Haiku

Haiku Rumi Messenger ($109)
Traveling with a yoga mat can be a challenge, but this stylish laptop bag simplifies that issue by including a strap for a yoga mat. It's perfect as an airplane carry-on, especially if your recipient travels to yoga retreats or just wants to keep up her practice while traveling. Made from recycled plastic, the bag comes in two classy colors (brown and black), each with a poetic design, and features a roomy design, padded laptop compartment and slot for a water bottle.

JakPak

JakPak ($250)
Is it a jacket? A sleeping bag? A tent? Believe it or not, the JakPak is all three in one, and it's even waterproof. It's the perfect gift for campers, football fans, or the travel junkie who loves cool gadgets.

Want more help keeping holiday stress under control? Here are 52 ways to reduce stress.


More Fit Gifts from That's Fit:
Guys
Runners
Yogis
At-Home Exercisers
Gadget Lovers

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]]>christmas gift ideasfit-travelgifts for fit travelersholiday giftstravel giftsKaren AspFri, 03 Dec 2010 11:00:00 ESTThe Best Cruises to Walk and Run!http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/01/the-best-cruises-to-walk-and-run/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/01/the-best-cruises-to-walk-and-run/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/11/01/the-best-cruises-to-walk-and-run/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jenny Hadfield, Great Alaskan Marathon Cruise

When you book a cruise, you could be playing Russian roulette with your waistline. It's tempting, after all, to shed your weight-conscious ways and live like a sloth, lounging for hours on shipboard decks and sipping and noshing your way through hundreds of extra calories a day. Unless, that is, you sign up for one of these unique running/walking cruises, which are open to all fitness levels:

Knock out a 5K: On December 16, Royal Caribbean will host a 5K in St. Maarten for passengers taking an Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Allure of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest ship. As a participant in the race, you'll get a T-shirt and be invited to the post-race party onboard. The week will also include group fun runs and lectures and seminars with athletes.

Take a week-long running/walking vacation: Climb aboard the Caribbean Princess for the Cruise to Run Caribbean Cruise from January 23-30, 2011. At each of the five port calls, you'll participate in organized events that vary in distances. In Tortola, for instance, you'll explore a four-mile course while the Antigua course covers eight miles. During the week, enjoy guest speakers, trivia games and cocktail parties.

Tackle a destination marathon: Want to log a marathon over a week's time? Check out the Caribbean Islands Marathon Cruise (Feb. 19-26, 2011) or the Great Alaskan Marathon Cruise (July 23-30, 2011) offered on Holland America's ms Eurodam and ms Westerdam, respectively. At each port call, you'll run or walk a certain distance so that by the end of the cruise, you'll have logged 26.2 miles. The marathon cruise week also includes clinics and strength training and flexibility sessions hosted by Jenny Hadfield, running coach and co-author of "Marathoning for Mortals," and John Bingham, Runner's World columnist and author of several running books.

Looking for a ship that takes the cake when it comes to calorie-burning activities? Take an inside look at fitness options aboard the Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's largest ship.

More on Fit Travel:
The Best iPhone Apps for Fitness Travelers
Escape to a Boot Camp Retreat
Pedal Off Vacation Calories

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]]>cruises that help you stay fitfit cruisingfit travelhealthy cruisesrunning vacationKaren AspMon, 01 Nov 2010 14:00:00 ESTEscape to a Boot Camp Retreathttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/01/escape-to-a-boot-camp-retreat/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/01/escape-to-a-boot-camp-retreat/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/10/01/escape-to-a-boot-camp-retreat/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mountain Trek

Boot camp workouts are hotter than ever -- and for good reason. During a typical 40-minute boot camp workout, you can burn 400 calories on average, according to a study from the American Council on Exercise. Want to really challenge that body and maybe even shed a few pounds? Book your next vacation at a boot camp retreat, most of which include accommodations and super healthy meals. Here are four to put on your radar:

Bella Boot Camp in Pompano Beach and Delray Beach, Fla.
Sneak away to the beach for these three- to seven-night fitness retreats. Choose from a full package that includes five hours of workouts each day, including beach boot camp, cardio kickboxing, yoga, Pilates and Zumba, or for a lighter schedule, the half program offers three hours of daily activity. Wellness discussions, body composition analysis and spa treatment round out the program. (Starting at $1,090 for double occupancy.)

Getaway Fitness in Florida, California and the Caribbean
Take your pick from two- to 14-night retreats at luxury hotels in various locations in the United States and the Caribbean. Packages include five to six hours of fitness daily, including beach boot camp workouts, strength and core conditioning, Zumba and cardio kickboxing; nutritional education; and fitness assessment. (Starting at $1,095 for double occupancy.)

Mountain Trek in British Columbia, Canada, and Baja, Mexico
These hiking-focused boot camp fitness and weight loss retreats run for seven or 14 days. Each day, you'll do six to seven hours of physical activity, including core, strength and endurance and cardio fitness classes. You'll also undergo a body composition analysis before and after your retreat and learn about healthy nutrition. (Starting at $3,600 for seven nights, $7400 for 14 nights.)

The Pinnacle Challenge in Palm Springs, Calif.
During this three-day, intense desert boot camp, you'll log 24-plus hours of hiking, strength training, aqua aerobics and yoga. You'll also go through fitness testing and listen to educational lectures. The bonus? The cost includes two massages. (Starting at $1,950 for single occupancy, $1,450 for double occupancy.)

More Active Vacation Stories:
Fit and Fabulous Volunteer Vacations
Fitness Retreats - 5 to Choose From

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]]>active vacationsboot camp retreatexercise retreatfit-travelspaKaren AspFri, 01 Oct 2010 11:00:00 ESTThe Best iPhone Apps for Fitness Travelershttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/03/the-best-iphone-apps-for-fitness-travelers/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/03/the-best-iphone-apps-for-fitness-travelers/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/09/03/the-best-iphone-apps-for-fitness-travelers/#commentsFiled under: ,

PumpOne

Twenty-five percent of travelers exercise less on summer vacations than they do at home, according to a TripAdvisor survey. If you have trouble sticking with your fitness program when you travel, put your iPhone to work. Granted, you still have to do the dirty work, but these apps can make staying in shape on the road more doable and fun. Here are five to try:

Virgin Atlantic's Jet Lag Fighter ($1.99)

Tired of being whipped by jet lag whenever you travel? Download this app and you'll get customized advice about when you should exercise to beat that fatigue. Just plug in personal info (e.g., gender, age, and regular wake-up and bedtimes) and trip details, and the app will calculate when you should exercise before and during your trip. It even tells you what activities are best for fighting jet lag. Another fun feature? The app tells you when you should and shouldn't get light, which sets your biological clock.

Mylil'Coach ($1.99)

Travel with Mylil'Coach and you'll have a personal trainer, dietitian and life coach wrapped into one. That's because this app sends you gentle reminders throughout the day to drink water, eat mindfully, breathe deeply and, yes, exercise. It also serves as a pedometer, tracking your daily step count and tallying how many more steps you need to reach 10,000 steps, a number most experts use as the minimum amount for managing weight. You can even set up a schedule and customize when and how often you receive reminders to walk more.

Shape Travelista ($1.99)

No fitness center in your hotel? You can't use that as an excuse not to exercise anymore. With this app, you need only a hotel room, as it teaches you how to do strength workouts that use travel-friendly items, including luggage, a bed or water bottles. Choose from eight full-body routines and use it to log your sets, reps and the equipment you've used.

Trailhead by The North Face (free)

Whether you want to hike, bike, ski, walk or run, this handy app locates trails wherever you are in the world. The database includes more than 300,000 trails that can be searched by activity, trail length, location and user rating. You can even track your route via GPS as you go and view distance, speed and elevation. All of this information can be saved on your phone, depending on how much space you have.

ExerciseTV (free)

If you're the type of exerciser who does best with classes and DVDs, you'll love this app. Every day, you'll get a 10- to 40-minute workout video ranging from aerobics to yoga from ExerciseTV. You'll also receive five categories of circuit workout moves, each one featuring 10 short videos that feature one to three minutes for abs, yoga/stretch, upper body, lower body and total body training. A light hand weight is the only piece of equipment you might need, but you can always use a filled water bottle.

Looking for more apps to load on to your iPhone? Check out these fitness apps.

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]]>fitness appsiPhone appsiPhone apps for fitness travelersKaren AspFri, 03 Sep 2010 15:00:00 ESTFit and Fabulous Volunteer Vacationshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/06/fit-and-fabulous-volunteer-vacations/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/06/fit-and-fabulous-volunteer-vacations/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/08/06/fit-and-fabulous-volunteer-vacations/#commentsFiled under: ,

Appalachian Mountain Club

You've got a new requirement on your next vacation: Make a difference. The solution? Take a volunteer vacation where you donate your time and energy to a certain cause. "Volunteering is the best way to travel because you get to know the area and most importantly, the people in a very real way," said Pam Grout, author of 100 Best Volunteer Vacations to Enrich Your Life (National Geographic, 2009). Although there are dozens, if not hundreds, of volunteer vacations you can take, here are five that will help you make a difference for the world -- and your waistline:

Maintain hiking trails: When you volunteer through the Appalachian Mountain Club, you'll help maintain New England hiking trails. Work might include clearing drainage ditches, cutting back vegetation or building rock stairs. During your downtime, you can explore your location, including Acadia National Park in Maine, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts.

Monitor coral reefs: Every year, Earthwatch Institute takes a trip to San Salvador, a remote island in the Bahamas, to survey endangered coral reefs, document the threat to the health of the reefs, and help test possible techniques to restore them. You'll work both on land and in water, donning snorkeling equipment to explore the crystal clear waters.

Study animals in the rainforest: The Atlantic Rainforest of Brazil will be your home during this adventure sponsored by Biosphere Expeditions. While there, you'll study jaguars, pumas, ocelots and other species as you walk on jungle paths looking for tracks, kills, scat and the animals themselves; setting camera traps for them; and creating sustainable ways of harvesting and processing forest produce. You should be able to walk up to about nine miles a day in mountainous rainforest terrain.

Conserve sea turtle populations: Head south to Costa Rica with United Planet from March through November, and you could help save sea turtles. You'll work at various locations to protect sea turtle nests from poachers and beach erosion. Your tasks might include night patrols (where you'll walk roughly three to six miles in the dark on soft, wet sand), turtle behavior assessment and park trail maintenance.

Make America more beautiful: Join the Sierra Club on one of its many nationwide volunteer vacations, and you could help restore native vegetation on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon (and then use your off-time to hike), protect the endangered ecosystem of the Santa Cruz Islands in California, or do maintenance projects in the national parks in Maui, after which you can hike, snorkel and swim.

Want more? Learn how you can use your fitness to make a difference for charities by training for a cause.

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]]>active vacationsdivinghikingsierra clubsnorkelingvacationsvolunteer vacationsVoluntourismKaren AspFri, 06 Aug 2010 13:00:00 ESTFive Great Places to Learn a New Watersporthttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/09/five-great-places-to-learn-a-new-watersport/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/09/five-great-places-to-learn-a-new-watersport/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/07/09/five-great-places-to-learn-a-new-watersport/#commentsFiled under: ,

Courtesy of KSF

When it comes to working out, you're a land-loving fitness enthusiast. Yet on vacation, why not venture out of your comfort zone and take up a watersport? Not only will you have a blast trying something different, you'll also give that body a challenge, which is key if you want to see gains in your fitness. Here are my picks for the best places to learn five cool watersports:

If you want to learn: River surfing
Travel to: Montreal, Canada

Not familiar with river surfing? It's sort of like ocean surfing with one major difference: Unlike ocean surfing where you're waiting for waves, waves in the river are created by rocks so they never move, giving you lots of hang time on the wave. And in Montreal, river surfing may be even more popular than the city's famous bagels (and they are yummy!). Take a lesson through Kayak Sans Frontiers, and you'll learn how to work the board, read the river currents, and then ride the wave, usually on your belly if you're a beginner.

Insider tip: Book the Surf's Up Montreal package at the luxurious Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, available Fridays and Saturdays through Sept. 1, 2010. The package, which starts at $379 CND per night, includes two nights' accommodations, one day of surfing lessons with snack and daily buffet breakfasts.

If you want to learn: Stand up paddling
Travel to: Santa Barbara, Calif.

Stand up paddling, or SUP for all you groupies, is hip: Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey have been spotted doing SUP, where you literally stand on a board and paddle through the water. If you want to learn, visit Santa Barbara where people do it in droves. Check out Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara for lessons and rentals.

Insider tip: Bunk in at the cozy, ultra-chic Canary Hotel, just a block from State Street where you'll find trendy bars and restaurants (including more yogurt stores than you can imagine, like the super popular Yogurtland where giant-sized, create-your-own concoctions are the craze) and great shopping.

If you want to learn: Outrigger canoeing
Travel to: The Big Island of Hawaii

Outrigger canoeing is Hawaii's official sport, which is why it makes sense to learn it here. Just don't be surprised when you do a huli, or flip in Hawaiian, as this sport will test your balance. For lessons, head to the Fairmont Orchid where a quiet, secluded cove makes learning the activity easier -- and doing a huli not as embarrassing.

Insider tip: If you're staying at the resort, daily lessons are free. Otherwise, you'll pay a small fee. The Fairmont also offers an hour and a half outrigger canoe adventure, which explores the Kohala Coastline and includes snorkeling and snack.

If you want to learn: Whitewater kayaking
Travel to: Vail., Colo.

Vail might be best known for its skiing, but come summer, whitewater kayaking is the hot sport. Book a one-day intensive beginner lesson through Alpine Quest Sports, and you'll spend the morning in a pond to learn paddling techniques, boat handling and the wet exit (even though it's not as bad you might think, trust me when I say you'll do everything you can to avoid flipping later in the river). After lunch, you'll head to the river and suit up for a thrilling ride down the rapids.

Insider tip: Craving some dry land training? Hit the trails with the Vail Trail Running Camp July 18-21, 2010. The camp is led by Vail-based athlete Ellen Miller and running guru Bart Yasso. Registration, which includes three nights' accommodations, daily breakfasts, yoga classes, nutrition sessions and coached trail runs, is $975.

If you want to learn: Kiteboarding
Travel to: The Outer Banks, N.C.

Make no mistake: Kiteboarding isn't easy to learn. Not only do you have to learn how to fly the kite, you also have to master riding a board in the water. That's why you need to learn from Real Kiteboarding, one of the country's largest kiteboarding schools. Sign up for half-day lessons or enroll in a camp like Zero to Hero, a three-day camp for beginners. There are also camps for kids and women.

Insider tip: If you've craving more adventure, take hang gliding lessons at Jockey's Ridge State Park through Kitty Hawk Kites. You'll be flying off the dunes, so if you crash (and you will!), the sand offers a soft landing.

Check out these other underwater exercises when you can't run or walk.

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]]>fit-travelKiteboardingLearn a fun watersportOutrigger canoeingRiver surfingStand up paddlingWhitewater kayakingKaren AspFri, 09 Jul 2010 13:00:00 ESTTrain -- and Travel -- For a Causehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/07/train-and-travel-for-a-cause/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/07/train-and-travel-for-a-cause/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/06/07/train-and-travel-for-a-cause/#commentsFiled under: ,

Team in Training

There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but trust me when I say you can score a free trip -- and in the process, get fit and make a difference. How? Sign up for a charity training program that melds fitness and fund-raising and then whisks you away to a fun location to participate in the event. It's the perfect solution if you're lacking motivation to exercise or just want to change things up.

I can vouch from experience. When I participated in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training over a decade ago, I was bored with my workouts. I also wanted to get into cycling, but didn't know how. And then a brochure arrived in my mail, challenging me to cycle a century (a 100-mile ride). In exchange for training with a qualified coach, airfare to the event, race entry fee and hotel accommodations (plus a few extra perks), I was asked to raise a certain amount of money. I knew my friends and family would ante up, so I signed up, and it's been one of the best experiences of my life.

Not only did it get me into cycling, but it was also an incredibly empowering experienced as I "adopted" a little boy who became my inspiration. Every time i trained, I thought of him and the thousands of other individuals who are struggling with leukemia. And when I crossed the finish line at the Seacoast Century, having pedaled through Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine, I honestly felt like I'd made a difference.

Not a cyclist? No worries. You can also walk, run, hike, even cross country ski. Check out these three charity training programs and sweat for a cause while getting that free trip.

What: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training
What you do: Train for a marathon, half marathon, triathlon, hiking event, 100-mile bike ride or cross country skiing event
What events you might go to: The Kauai Marathon in Hawaii; Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco, Calif.; Moab Century Tour in Moab, Utah; Honolulu Century in Hawaii; and the Big Kahuna Triathlon in Santa Cruz, Calif.

What: The American Stroke Association's Train to End Stroke
What you do: Run or walk a half marathon or marathon
What events you might go to: The Maui Marathon and Half Marathon in Hawaii; the Walt Disney World Wine and Dine Half Marathon in Orlando, Fla.

What: The Arthritis Foundation's Joints in Motion
What you do: Run or walk a half marathon or marathon
What events you might go to: The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon and Half Marathon in Denver, Colo.; the Walt Disney World Marathon and Half Marathon in Orlando, Fla.

To make sure that any vacation you take keeps you on track with your exercise program, book a room at one of these hotels with fun fitness offerings.

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]]>Charity training programsfit-travelJoints in MotionTeam in TrainingTrain to end strokeKaren AspMon, 07 Jun 2010 11:00:00 ESTPedal Off Vacation Calorieshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/07/pedal-off-vacation-calories/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/07/pedal-off-vacation-calories/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/05/07/pedal-off-vacation-calories/#commentsFiled under: ,

Want to know one of the best ways to explore a city and of course, burn off those vacation margaritas and ice cream cones? Hop on a bike.

I recently did this in San Francisco. (Check out Bay City Bike, if you're there.) I biked all around Fisherman's Wharf -- it's flat down there so you don't have to worry about those dreaded hills -- and then rode across the Golden Gate Bridge, eventually pedaling into Sausalito for lunch. Cool, yes? I thought so. Plus, I covered more on those wheels than I could have covered by foot.

I've done the same thing in numerous other cities, including Santa Barbara, Calif, Boulder, Colo., and even Paris. And it's super easy -- just pick up a bike at a rental shop and off you go. Some shops offer guided tours or you can hook up with a tour company that leads bike tours. Even hotels are getting more savvy about bikes, and offering them to their guests. For instance, the Hotel Monaco in Portland, Ore., offers a carless vacation package, which includes a historic downtown bike tour and two free bike rentals. Or if you're staying at the Park Hyatt Chicago, ask about the complimentary bicycle valet program that gives you hybrid bikes, cycling accessories and maps.

So what are the best cities to bike in? Bicycling magazine recently compiled its list of the best bike-friendly cities. If you've got the itch to explore by bike on your next vacation, put these top 10 bike-friendly cities on your agenda:

1) Minneapolis, Minn.
2) Portland, Ore.
3) Boulder, Colo.
4) Seattle
5) Eugene, Ore.
6) San Francisco
7) Madison, Wisc.
8) New York City
9) Tucson, Ariz.
10) Chicago

One word of warning, though: Make sure to wear a helmet. On a vacation with my family to Maui when I was a teenager, we were biking down Haleakala when my sister took a small spill off the side of the road. Fortunately, she was wearing her helmet or else the situation could have ended much differently.

Prefer to do some hiking instead on your next vacation? Here are four of my all-time favorite hikes.

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]]>bike on vacationBike-friendly citiesexercisefit-traveltravelWhere to bike on vacationKaren AspFri, 07 May 2010 13:00:00 ESTHow to Eat Healthy While You Travelhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/26/how-to-eat-healthy-while-you-travel/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/26/how-to-eat-healthy-while-you-travel/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/26/how-to-eat-healthy-while-you-travel/#commentsFiled under: ,

eating in airportForget hassling with airport security lines or sitting in weekend traffic. The toughest part about traveling is eating healthy, especially given all of the diet landmines in airports, hotels and highway rest stops. "Fortunately, it's getting easier to eat healthy when traveling, as long as you pack some creativity and are willing to do a little sleuthing," said Kate Geagan, a dietitian in Park City, Utah, and author of "Go Green, Get Lean: Trim Your Waistline with the Ultimate Low-Carbon Footprint Diet." Before you hit the road (or air) for your next trip, check out Geagan's must-have tips to help you make the healthiest food choices in three diet-unfriendly locations.

Travel Trap: The airport

Why it's a problem: The nerve-rattling process of getting to your gate can leave you feeling tired and stressed -- a bad combination for your diet. "When your mood is low, you crave something that will make you feel better, and that's usually high-calorie, high-fat foods," Geagan said. Being surrounded by Burger Kings and Cinnabons make it even easier to cave to those cravings.

How to eat healthy: Avoid mega portions at airport restaurants and high-calorie beverages, and you'll have conquered two major diet obstacles. Ideally, water should be your drink of choice to keep calories down and stay hydrated. Outside of that, if you need snacks, head to a newsstand where you can buy almonds or peanuts (avoid sugar-coated versions) or dried fruit, choosing "naked" options versus those drenched in yogurt or other coatings. At restaurants, sandwiches can be healthy, as long as you don't overload on bread. Look for whole-grain bread, a high-protein filling, veggies and no added extras like sauces or mayo. Other healthy meals and snacks include one slice of cheese pizza with a side salad; a burrito with beans, brown rice and veggies; or a low-calorie smoothie made on the spot.

Travel Trap: The hotel breakfast buffet

Why it's a problem: From breads and bagels to pancakes and waffles, these buffets are loaded with calorie-laden, non-nutritious carbohydrates. That highly-refined carbo load can leave you feeling sluggish later on. It could also trigger an insulin drop mid-morning, making your tummy grumble earlier than it should.

How to eat healthy: Skip the waffles and muffins (even if they are blueberry) and look for healthy carbohydrates like whole-wheat bread or bagels, or oatmeal. Then pair that with fresh fruit and a lean protein like peanut butter or a glass of milk. If possible, grab an orange or apple to snack on later.

Travel Trap: The highway rest stop

Why it's a problem: Chalk it up to boredom. After you've been staring at an endless highway for hours, pulling into a rest stop and chewing away your monotony sounds like the best solution. Problem is, when you're in this mood, you're easily swayed by processed junk food.

How to eat healthy: Pack a cooler of nutritious foods so you're not tempted by high-fat choices at rest stop restaurants. Easy-to-travel foods include peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, yogurt, cheese sticks, oranges, apples, carrots and celery. Geagan also likes carrying bags of dry cereal (especially for her kids), nuts, seeds and dried fruit. If you need to stop for food along the way and fast food is your only option, avoid fried menu items, sugary sodas and fat and carb-loaded combo meals.

If you are looking to not only eat healthy but stay fit on the road, find out how these Olympians do it.

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]]>airportcarbfast foodfit-travelhotelrest stoptravelKaren AspMon, 26 Apr 2010 12:00:00 ESTStay, Sleep and Sweat: Hotel Chains That Go the Extra Milehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/02/stay-sleep-and-sweat-hotel-chains-that-go-the-extra-mile/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/02/stay-sleep-and-sweat-hotel-chains-that-go-the-extra-mile/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/04/02/stay-sleep-and-sweat-hotel-chains-that-go-the-extra-mile/#commentsFiled under: ,

runners westin hotelThese days, you expect every hotel to have a fitness center. Yet some hotels are dishing out extras to appease even the biggest exercise fanatics, and that's always a welcome treat. For instance, when I stayed at the Ritz-Carlton in Fort Lauderdale, I found maps, snacks and drinks for runners and walkers -- all free! During another trip, I took a free yoga class on the rooftop of the hotel where I was staying.

Want to take advantage of some of these extras on your next trip? Take a look at what popular hotel chains are doing to help you keep your fitness program on track:

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts: Join the President's Club (it's free), and you'll have access to the Fairmont Fit program, which delivers Adidas workout apparel and shoes to your room. (If you're at the first of three levels of the club, there's a $10 fee for the gear.) You can also get pre-loaded MP3 players to use during your workouts. Fairmont Hotels in Canada even offer complimentary BMW Cruise Bikes so you can pedal your way around the destination.

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts: If you want to relieve stress and ease travel aches, StayFit@Hyatt offers in-room, on-demand yoga videos. You'll also find a 24-hour StayFit fitness concierge at North American resorts who can provide workout attire in under an hour and complimentary GPS Forerunner armbands so you can take your walk or run outside without getting lost. Don't trust technology? Pick up palm-sized route cards (routes range from two to eight miles) with directions on one side and mileage markers on the other.

Westin Hotels & Resorts: Feel like going for a run but don't want to go alone? Through runWESTIN, running concierges lead free, roughly three-mile "discovery" runs, tailored to your fitness level. If you want to go solo, you can pick up pocket-sized running maps. Or if you prefer sweating in the comfort of your room, request a WestinWORKOUT room, which features a treadmill or stationary bike, Pilates and cycling DVDs, adjustable dumbbells and core training equipment. Expect to spend $30 to $50 more per night for those rooms.

Here's another option to keep your fitness program on track when you travel: Take a fitness retreat.

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]]>Fairmontfit travelhotel fitnessHyattWestinWorking out on the roadKaren AspFri, 02 Apr 2010 15:00:00 ESTOlympic Withdrawl? Get on a Bobsledhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/04/olympic-withdrawl-heres-how-to-try-your-favorite-sport/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/04/olympic-withdrawl-heres-how-to-try-your-favorite-sport/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/03/04/olympic-withdrawl-heres-how-to-try-your-favorite-sport/#commentsFiled under:

bobsled
Still got Olympic fever now four days after the closing of the 2010 Winter Games? Fortunately, you don't have to wait another four years to get your Winter Games fix. Just head to Utah Olympic Park in Park City, Utah, or the Olympic Center in Lake Placid, N.Y., and not only will you feel the spirit of the Games, you can experience the same adrenaline rush as the Olympians. Whether it's bobsledding or the skeleton that trips your trigger, you can do both -- and tons more.

At Utah Olympic Park, dare to ride the Comet, a four-person bobsled driven by a professional pilot. (You didn't really think you'd get to drive, did you?) Plunge head-first down the track on a skeleton. Get the guts to hop on a luge sled. Or take to the fastest ice on earth at the Utah Olympic Oval and learn how to speed skate, figure skate, and yes, even curl. (Admit it: You loved the sport!)

Meanwhile, in Lake Placid, you can do more bobsledding, this time with a pro driver and brakeman, or slide down the track solo on a skeleton sled. Got a craving to be a biathlete? Take a freestyle skiing lesson and then hit the range with an instructor. No experience at Lake Placid is complete, though, without a skate on the outdoor speed skating oval (be sure to warm up at the fire pit in the middle).

Both parks are open through March, but if you can't get there by then, not to worry. Bobsled rides and skating at both parks go on through summer, along with loads of other fun things to do.

By the way, if Whistler and Vancouver factor into your plans next year, That's Fit confirmed that Whistler Olympic Park, where you can hit the cross country ski trails, will be open next winter. You can also hit the downhill runs from the alpine events on Whistler or don the ice skates at the Richmond Olympic Oval.

Still craving some Olympic scoop? Check out how some of our favorite Olympians stay fit on the road.

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]]>bobsledcurlingfit-travellake placidOlympic CenterOlympic experiencepark cityUtah Olympic ParkWinter GamesKaren AspThu, 04 Mar 2010 13:00:00 ESTOlympians Tips for Staying Fit On the Roadhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/02/05/olympians-tips-for-staying-fit-on-the-road/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/02/05/olympians-tips-for-staying-fit-on-the-road/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/02/05/olympians-tips-for-staying-fit-on-the-road/#commentsFiled under: ,


Ever wonder how Olympic athletes stay healthy and fit on the road, especially given their grueling travel schedules? That's Fit recently chatted with six Olympians who will be competing in Vancouver to ask them just that. Here's what they had to say:

Drink Up
"Whether you're on a long flight or a puddle jumper, the most important thing is to stay hydrated. It's a bummer you have to buy a bottle of water in the airport but completely worth it." -- Lindsey Vonn, alpine skiing

Kick the Cobwebs
"I like to go for a 20- to 30-minute run after a long day traveling (10 minutes slow, 10 minutes at a faster pace, then six sprints to wake my body up and blow out the cobwebs). I also travel with the Flow Bar for the perfect 10-minute workout. You can hang it from any door and do a number of exercises. My routine is eight pull-ups, dips, lay back rows, one leg squats facing the door, one leg squats parallel to the door (like lateral ski dip) and then push-ups. Do that two or three round and it's over in 10 to 12 minutes for a full-body workout." -- Daron Rahlves, ski cross

Eat, Move and Have Fun
"I always travel with almonds for a healthy, filling snack since airports generally lack these kinds of foods. I go for a walk and stretch immediately upon arrival. Exercise is often the last thing I feel like doing, but it wakes me up and makes my muscles feel refreshed. Plus, it sets the tone for activity for the remainder of the trip. If on vacation, I stay active using the opportunity to mix up my workouts. If I'm near a beach, the sand provides excellent resistance for running, and it's easier on my joints. I like to play tennis but rarely have time when I'm training for skiing so I take the opportunity to work on my skills when I'm on vacation." -- Hannah Kearney, freestyle moguls

Break the Fast
"To keep my diet on track while I'm traveling, I start my day off with a good, healthy breakfast. This helps give me enough energy to perform at my best for a fully day of training and competitions." -- J.R. Celski, short track speedskating

Plan It
"A good way to stay healthy while traveling is to plan ahead. Make sure you pack something to eat that's healthy and filling so you don't have to buy that gross, expensive airport food." -- Shauna Rohbock, bobsledding

Choose Wisely
"It's tough when you're traveling because some places have good food, others don't, and you end up not eating the way you should. You just have to make the best choices you can, avoiding empty calories as much as possible. Then when you get home, get back on track." -- Patrick Deneen, freestyle skiing

Be Flexible, Order Up
"When I arrive someplace, I check into the hotel, find the best restaurant and basically settle into my new living quarters. I usually travel very long distances to perform and compete so I usually wake up first thing the next morning, find a ballet room or in some cases a vacant hallway and stretch, walk through my programs, do some mat Pilates exercises and then get ready for my on-ice practices. I also always find the best steakhouse in town and eat filet mignon and green salad, as my nutrition is something I take seriously, relying on one major meal a day and some snacks in between, and the food quality is a bit suspect at competitions." -- Johnny Weir, men's figure skating

For more Olympic info, including photos, videos, and a full schedule of the 2010 Olympic Games, log onto NBC Olympics or TeamUSA.

What do you think about yoga being an Olympic sport? Check out the buzz on this new idea.

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]]>2010 Olympic GamesDaron Rahlvesfit-travelJohnny WeirLindsey VonnOlympicsPatrick DeneeShauna RohbockTravel like an OlympianVancouverKaren AspFri, 05 Feb 2010 11:00:00 ESTCross Country Skiing Through Yellowstonehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2010/01/01/cross-country-skiing-through-yellowstone/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/01/01/cross-country-skiing-through-yellowstone/http://www.thatsfit.com/2010/01/01/cross-country-skiing-through-yellowstone/#commentsFiled under: ,

cross country skiing
It's one thing to face natural obstacles -- I'm talking huge hills, bumpy terrain, that sort of thing -- when cross country skiing. Now try doing it with two bison a few hundred feet in front of you.

That's exactly the predicament I found myself in when I did the Yellowstone on Skis program, a six-night trek sponsored by the Yellowstone Association. It's one of the association's popular lodging and learning programs, which includes lodging, food, activities, a guide and, in this case, rolls physical activity, education and wildlife encounters into one awesome trip.

In a nutshell, I spent three nights at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and another three at Old Faithful Snow Lodge, which was much a treat as the skiing. So, too, were the rides in the snowcoach, which took my group to the trailheads. As we rode, our guide Julianne gave us the scoop about Yellowstone's history and wildlife.

Continue reading Cross Country Skiing Through Yellowstone

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]]>cross country skiingfit-travelskiingYellowstoneYellowstone AssociationYellowstoneAssociationKaren AspFri, 01 Jan 2010 11:00:00 ESTOasis of the Seas: Getting Fit on the World's Biggest Cruise Shiphttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/04/oasis-of-the-seas-getting-fit-on-the-worlds-biggest-cruise-shi/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/04/oasis-of-the-seas-getting-fit-on-the-worlds-biggest-cruise-shi/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/04/oasis-of-the-seas-getting-fit-on-the-worlds-biggest-cruise-shi/#commentsFiled under: ,

You know that saying, "bigger isn't always better"? It might hold true for some things but not for the Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship, especially if you're looking for a cruise to help keep -- or get -- you in shape.


Simply put, the Oasis is the motherload of all cruise ships. Accommodating a whopping 6,296 passengers and spanning 1,187 feet long (just over three football field lengths), it's the world's largest cruise ship. I had a chance to hop aboard during a special preview sailing, and I can say this: For fitness buffs, this ship delivers.

For starters, there's the massive fitness center. Choose from over 150 cardio machines, take a Kinesis class, burn some calories in a spin class (which tracks your heart rate on a monitor) or pump the iron.

Continue reading Oasis of the Seas: Getting Fit on the World's Biggest Cruise Ship

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]]>Fit-TravelflowriderOasis of the SeasOasisOfTheSeasRoyal CaribbeanRoyalCaribbeanKaren AspFri, 04 Dec 2009 13:00:00 ESTGetting Fit for Adventure Travelhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/06/getting-fit-for-adventure-travel/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/06/getting-fit-for-adventure-travel/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/06/getting-fit-for-adventure-travel/#commentsFiled under:

Got an adventure trip on the calendar? Maybe you're kayaking the Sea of Cortez, hiking Machu Picchu or climbing Mount Rainier. Granted, you might already be in shape, but taking an adventure trip is akin to doing a marathon: You've got to fine tune your body for the demands of that particular excursion. But how?


You've got a few options. You could wing it, of course, and keep up your regular fitness program (you do have one, right?). You could hire a personal trainer. Or you could a customized fitness plan from Fit for Trips.

Fit for Trips was created by an adventure traveler and personal trainer, Marcus Shapiro, to help people get fit for adventure travels. Shapiro and his team of expert trainers (and they do have great qualifications, by the way) partner with adventure tour operators to create fitness programs for specific itineraries. They also design customized fitness programs for individuals and offer support via e-mail or phone.

Continue reading Getting Fit for Adventure Travel

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]]>adventure travelsadventure tripsAdventureTravelsAdventureTripsFit for TripsFit-TravelFitForTripsGetting fit for an adventure triptraining for an adventure tripTrainingForAnAdventureTriptraveltravelingtripsKaren AspFri, 06 Nov 2009 11:00:00 ESTHikes to Keep You Fithttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/23/fitness-hikes-on-vacation/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/23/fitness-hikes-on-vacation/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/10/23/fitness-hikes-on-vacation/#commentsFiled under:

Hiking is one of my favorite activities, and whenever I travel, I try to hit a trail. I've done tons of cool hikes around the world -- and some not so cool, including one in Costa Rica that landed me in a cow pasture complete with manure. Here are four of that top my list:


1. Kilauea Iki Trail, Big Island, Hawaii

No trip to the Big Island is complete without a visit to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, where you could stand within feet of flowing lava. Once there, drive to the Kilauea Iki trailhead for this four-mile, moderate hike. You'll descend through a lush rain forest until you pop out on the crater floor, which is still steaming. Hike your way across the crater until you spot the trailhead going back into the rain forest, now ascending. By the end, you'll have climbed up and down the equivalent of a 40-story building.

Continue reading Hikes to Keep You Fit

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]]>4 great hikes4GreatHikesBig IslandBigIslandCascade Canyon TrailCascadeCanyonTrailfit-travelGrand Teton National ParkGrandTetonNationalParkGros PitonGrosPitonHanging Lake TrailHangingLakeTrailKilauea Iki TrailKilaueaIkiTrailSt. LuciaSt.LuciaKaren AspFri, 23 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST