Still holding strong to that New Year’s resolution to get more active? Well done, if so – only about one in six Brits tend to stick to them all year.
If you’ve found yourself flagging in your efforts to get in shape, though, a holiday focused on exercise and physical activity might be just the boost you need. Getting away from everything and having an experience you’ll treasure forever doesn’t mean just lazing on a beach somewhere. And there are so many ways to have an incredible time while pushing yourself towards your fitness goals!
Yoga and wellness retreats
Don’t panic if you were picturing a gruelling training programme; an active holiday can mean something serene! Yoga is provably nourishing for both body and mind – and, whether you practise it regularly at home or have never touched a mat, you can find retreats in all corners of the world that will help you use it to develop strength, flexibility and mindfulness.
The likes of Bali, Costa Rica and India represent incredible destinations, with their many wellness centres ready to welcome international visitors plus stunning natural scenery and local food that contribute to a holistic sense of satisfaction. But there are also fantastic options within the UK if you’re on a tighter budget.
High-intensity boot camps
Serenity’s brilliant but, if you are up for a challenge, this is the way to really push yourself. Boot camps provide structured fitness programmes, focusing on strength training, HIIT workouts and endurance challenges, overseen by experts. You’ll join groups of like-minded people and motivate each other to meet your fitness goals while taking advantage of carefully chosen meal plans to maximise results.
Thailand is home to some of the world’s best fitness boot camps, particularly in Phuket and Koh Samui, but the UK also boasts several in scenic countryside locations.
Cycling adventures
Whether you’re more interested in rugged mountain biking or touring over more of your destination via long-distance road cycling, getting on two wheels delivers a great blend of cardio fitness, endurance training and scenic exploration.
Cycling holidays in Spain are popular for their diverse terrain and well-maintained routes in beautiful areas like Andalusia, as are other European destinations like France’s Provence region and the majestic Dolomites of Italy.
Surfing and water sports
Getting out on the water can be as beneficial for your health as it is exhilarating. Surfing bolsters your core strength, balance and cardiovascular endurance, and there are dedicated schools and retreats to be found in almost any picturesque coastal country you could dream of visiting. Many such programmes also incorporate yoga and strength training into their offerings, for a holistic and complementary wellness package.
Portugal might be Europe’s top choice for surfing retreats, particularly in the Algarve and Peniche, but the likes of Australia and Indonesia are amazing choices if you’re keen to go farther afield.
Hiking and outdoor expeditions
Sometimes there’s no beating just setting off on your own two feet and exploring. Hiking is a full-body workout that challenges both body and mind while enabling you to witness incredible scenery on your own terms. Whether you’re exploring far-flung destinations like New Zealand’s epic trails or the glaciers and volcanoes of Patagonia, or just heading up to the Scottish Highlands for an unforgettable long weekend, it’s a simple and rewarding pursuit.
