Fitness On a Cruise

While finding enough time to work out or even just make it on time to your favorite class can be difficult at home, this is something your don't have to worry about while cruising any of the seven seas. On a cruise, or at least on Norwegian they plan their class times around your day! Most of the classes are scheduled earlier enough to still be able to make it to your excursion ( thats cruise talk for activity at the port) , or at the perfect time to sneak in a little workout after boarding time but before dinner!

Theres a range of classes offered, again, I can only speak for Norwegian Cruise Line, but we had spin classes, morning stretches, strength circuits, and even informative classes. The informative classes or seminars were things like " How to do a detox" or "Preventing Back Pain".

So yes, there were classes and plenty of opportunities to join one. But, the downside to these classes was that, if like me your use to spin classes that average about 70 minutes or a 90 minute yoga sess your gonna be let down. These classes only lasted for 30 minutes! I don't know about you but that is not enough time for me to get my fitness on.

Hate to be a downer again, but if your looking for a " I just lost of BARREL of SWEAT workout", or something new to add to your kick ass circuit, these classes are not for you. Although the 80 year old next to me killed her 2 lbs backward lungs, I found them a little less challenging. The stretch class was nice though, low key and a good place to make some cruise ship friends.

If your a beginner, or just want to stay active while cruising these classes will honestly be perfect for you. They are great for the elderly, the bored, or the fitness junkie who just wants to make some friends and doesn't mind spending some extra time in the gym after. If your the fitness freak I suggest just sticking to your normal workouts ( that is if they have your equipment), lets just say the gym is a little less than stocked. But what can you expect, you are on a boat.

The minimal amount of equipment could be looked at as a bad thing or you could make the most of it and focus on some muscles you have been neglecting. I actually enjoyed having to be creative and come up with my own workouts to keep things challenging. Additionally a little rest of your muscles isn't such a bad thing especially if you've been killing it lately. I was shocked after skipping the gym for two days, my legs felt stronger than they had in a while. Many of us forget rest is important for muscle growth...GUILTY.

The actual gym... on my cruise it was quiet tiny, at least by my standards. It had a large number of cardio machines, large meaning relative to the weighted machines. This meant during peak hours a lot of time will be spent waiting for your favorite piece of equipment. Some people, Ill be honest, like myself I'm a big walker, would spend forever on the treadmill, so the waiting time can be really long, sorry fellow users, BUT I'm sure some of you are guilty too!

Don't be afraid to pack your own equipment, I mean not your 10lb dumbbells or your fav 20lb kettlebell, but things like bands ( thanks amazon) are a great lightweight option to enhance your training. Jump ropes, light ankle weights, and maybe even your yoga mat are other great essentials to bring.

Now onto one of the best aspects.. the sauna! Not only is it great for post workout relaxation, it also can help you sweat out the extra toxins you'll probably be ingesting on the trip. AND its conveniently located right across the way and they even have water and a nice robe waiting for you. Seriously the Sauna and the steam room were my go too, plus there was nice fruit infused water in the relax room right outside.

If you have any questions, comment below! I'll be happy to answer!

As always, Travel Well, Be Well!

#workouts #Stayingfitwhiletraveling #healthytraveling #healthtips