Living in a van on the road can be an exciting and unique way of life. However, it can be difficult to maintain a consistent workout routine while on the go. But, by implementing a few key strategies, it is possible to stay fit and healthy while living the van life. Not only have we managed to stay healthy and fit ourselves, but we've witnessed countless others maintain their non-vanlife workout routines while on the road. We've even seen several people successfully train for triathlons and iron-mans while living in a van.
Planning ahead will help you find exercise equipment and gyms
One of the most important strategies for working out when living in a van is to plan your workouts ahead of time. This means researching local parks, hiking trails, or gym facilities in advance. Many parks offer outdoor fitness equipment, so you can get in a full-body workout while enjoying the scenery. Alternatively, you can look for local gyms that offer day passes or weekly rates. Having a plan in place for where and when you will work out will make it easier to stick to your routine. Many vanlifers sign up with national chain gyms such as Planet Fitness to ensure they have access to a proper setup along the way, while maintaining an affordable budget.
Consider bodyweight exercises, which require minimal equipment - perfect for vanlife
If you're unable to find a gym or park, you can still get a great workout using your own bodyweight. Bodyweight exercises are a great way to stay in shape without any equipment. These exercises can be done anywhere and include moves like push-ups, lunges, squats, and burpees. You can also incorporate yoga or stretching into your routine for increased flexibility and relaxation. If you're just getting started with bodyweight, there are countless guides and resources to help you get going:
Fitness apps: There are many fitness apps available for both Android and iOS devices that offer bodyweight workouts and exercises. Some popular options include Nike Training Club, Freeletics, and Sworkit. These apps provide pre-made workout routines and allow you to track your progress over time.
YouTube: YouTube is a great resource for finding bodyweight workouts and exercises. Many fitness channels and trainers offer free workout videos, including yoga, pilates, and HIIT workouts. Some popular channels include FitnessBlender, Yoga with Adriene, and POPSUGAR Fitness.
Fitness blogs: Fitness blogs can also be a helpful resource for finding bodyweight exercises and workouts. Many fitness bloggers offer free workout routines and tips on their websites, as well as on social media platforms like Instagram. Some popular fitness bloggers include Kayla Itsines, Tone It Up, and Blogilates.
Bodyweight workout books: There are many books available that offer bodyweight workouts and exercises, including "You Are Your Own Gym" by Mark Lauren and "Convict Conditioning" by Paul Wade. These books provide detailed instructions and photos of each exercise, as well as workout routines that you can follow.
Online fitness communities: Joining online fitness communities or forums can connect you with other people interested in bodyweight workouts. These communities may offer workout challenges, motivation, and support to help you stay on track with your fitness goals.
Using these resources can help you find bodyweight workouts and exercises to stay fit while living on the road. Be consistent and incorporate variety in your workouts to challenge your body and make progress over time.
Another great way to work out while living in a van is to invest in portable fitness equipment. Resistance bands, dumbbells, and yoga mats are all lightweight and easy to pack. Resistance bands are a versatile tool that can be used for a full-body workout and take up almost no space at all. They take up very little space and can be used to target specific muscle groups. Dumbbells are also great for strength training and come in a variety of weights, including twist-off / adjustable versions that are incredibly convenient and efficient in terms of space for vanlife. Yoga mats are useful for stretching and core work, and can also be used for HIIT workouts or bodyweight exercises.
Staying active isn't limited to gyms and weights when on the road
When you're living in a van, it's important to stay active throughout the day aside from planned workouts. Sitting for long periods of time can be detrimental to your health (both physical and mental well-being), so make an effort to move around as much as possible. When you're parked, take a walk or go for a hike. Many national parks and scenic areas offer beautiful trails and outdoor fitness equipment. Biking is also a great way to explore the area and get in a cardio workout, and fortunately a bike can easily be attached to any van.
Exercising in a van on rainy days is still possible
If you're unable to leave your van, there are still ways to stay active in most sizes of vans. If you have a high-roof van, you can do simple exercises like squats, lunges, and jumping jacks. Resistance bands and dumbbells can be used for strength training. Yoga is another great way to stay active and can be done anywhere. Even in a low-roof van, push-ups, crunches, yoga and various bodyweight exercises can be done effectively.
Listen to your body to find the right consistency and consider a community for accountability
It's also important to listen to your body and adjust your workout routine as needed. If you're feeling tired or sore, take a rest day or opt for a gentle yoga practice instead of a high-intensity workout. Overexertion can lead to injury and setbacks, so it's important to prioritize rest and recovery.
Lastly, consider finding a workout partner or joining a fitness community. Having a workout buddy can help keep you motivated and accountable, and it can be a great way to meet new people while on the road. Look for local fitness classes or groups in the area you're traveling through, or consider joining an online fitness community.
Finally, consistency is key when it comes to working out while living in a van. Even if you only have a few minutes each day, make an effort to exercise. Set a goal to work out for at least 30 minutes each day, whether it's a walk around the block or a full-body workout. By staying consistent, you'll see progress over time and feel better overall. It may feel uncomfortable to workout in a campsite or empty parking lot at first, but over the long term it's certainly worth it.
Beyond exercise: mindfulness, sleep and diet are key while living in a van
Another important aspect of staying fit while living in a van is to incorporate mindfulness and stress-reducing activities into your daily routine. Living on the road can be stressful at times, and stress can have a negative impact on your physical health. Practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.
Staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet is also important for staying fit and healthy while living in a van. Drinking enough water is essential for proper bodily function, and staying hydrated can help you avoid fatigue and headaches. Eating a healthy diet can be challenging when you're on the road, but it's important to make an effort. Pack healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, and protein bars. Avoid fast food and processed snacks, which are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Additionally, getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining good health and staying motivated to exercise. Make sure to create a comfortable sleeping environment in your van, with a comfortable mattress and appropriate ventilation. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule to help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle.