Jet-Set & Jitterbug: Healthy Habits for Dancers on the Go!
Calling all globetrotting dance divas and jet-setting jitterbugs! You've snagged that dream dance tour or exotic vacation, but the thought of navigating unfamiliar food environments and keeping your pirouettes polished has you feeling like a pointe shoe in a mud puddle. Fear not, footwork fanatics! Here's your guide to maintaining healthy habits while you explore the world:
Food Fuelling:
Pack Smart Snacks: Stock up on travel-friendly options like nuts, dried fruit, and whole-wheat crackers. Pack a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated! Remember that the fuller you feel, the less likely you’ll be to fall prey to the first deep-fried culinary wonder that comes your way.
Embrace Local Markets: Explore farmers markets for fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains (remember to wash everything before you eat it - bacteria may differ from place to place, so take steps to protect your body). Bonus points for practicing your language skills!
Restaurant Roulette: Research healthy options beforehand, ask about ingredients, and don't be afraid to customize your order.
Portion Patrol: Pack reusable containers and portion out meals to avoid overindulging. Remember, you're dancing, not hibernating!
Fitness Fiesta:
Hotel Hustle: Utilize your room for bodyweight exercises like lunges, squats, and push-ups. Get creative with furniture for impromptu barre work! I always pack a resistance band and Fila disks when I travel. They weigh next to nothing, and allow me to get a full workout in my room every day.
Park It: Jog or do yoga in local parks, soaking up the scenery and fresh air. Many places have exercise equipment inside parks, or at least sufficient open space to move your body in great scenery. Too shy to exercise in public? Remember that you don’t live in the place, so chances are you will never see any of these people again! On a serious note, in my experience people in many places will look at your workout with approval, if they look at you at all. Being too busy to pay any mind to fellow humans is the state of affairs everywhere it seems.
Dance it Out: Find local dance classes, workshops, or even just freestyle in your hotel room! Move your body and embrace the rhythm of a new place.
Explore on Foot: Walking is a fantastic way to stay active and explore the city, and vacation is the time when you actually have (ahm) time to walk, instead of racing from appointment to appointment. Plus, you'll burn extra calories and discover hidden gems!
Remember:
Listen to Your Body: Adjust your routines based on your energy levels and travel schedule. Do light workouts, but rest when needed. Traveling can be hard on your body in itself, don’t push it more than is reasonable.
Be Flexible: Don't stress about occasional indulgences. Enjoy the local cuisine and cultural experiences!
Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle and sip frequently, especially in hot climates.
Embrace the Journey: Traveling is an adventure! Use it as an opportunity to explore new foods, cultures, and ways to move your body.
So, pack your dance shoes, your healthy snacks, and your adventurous spirit! With these tips, you can keep your body fueled, your form strong, and your dance journey sparkling, no matter where your travels take you. Now go forth, explore the world, and dance like the globe-trotting star you are!
#DanceTravel #HealthyHabits #JetSetJitterbug #FuelYourDance
Extras:
Never underestimate the importance of hydration! Read our Hydration and Its Impact on Dance Performance for details on just how important it is to drink enough water.
Are an adult dancer looking for nutrition advice not aimed at 15-year-olds? Check out Nutrition Challenges for Adult Dancers: Nourishing Your Passion at Every Stage.
And for those using dance as a weight loss tool, here is a guide to help: A Balanced Dance: Tips for Safe and Realistic Weight Loss for Dancers.
