The holidays can be a challenging time of year in terms of fitness. With all the festive goodies and activities that surround us, it can be easy to set aside normal fitness routines until after all the holiday excitement. As a travel nurse on assignment during the holiday season, you have the extra challenge of fitting in exercise in a location you’re not familiar with. Not to mention feeling tired after covering shifts while other employees are off during the holiday season. Despite it all, you can take a few steps to stay in shape during the holidays.
It may seem inevitable, but you don’t need to enter the new year with a few extra pounds! Just follow these easy fitness tips for travel nurses:
- Harness the power of technology. Maybe you don’t have time to join the local gym, but that’s OK. Thanks to the magic of mobile technology, you have access to a variety of fitness apps that can help you squeeze in a workout during your downtime. You can try Nike Training Club, Jefit Workout or Touchfit: GSP. You can also try a health tracking device to help you track your steps, calories burned, etc. And don’t forget your DVD player or the Internet—you can bring workout or yoga DVDs along for the ride while on assignment, or check out free online workouts. Try doyogawithme.com or a YouTube search for workout videos.
- Limit portions and mindless snacking. When you’re out with friends or want to enjoy the plate of cookies at the nurse’s station, pay attention to what and how much you’re eating. At parties, take one plate of food and step away from tables of food and snacks. Instead, enjoy conversations. At restaurants, where portions are often oversized, ask for a takeout container at the beginning of the meal and package half of your plate to go before you even begin. With sugary treats, enjoy one or two of your favorites and leave the rest.
- Get enough sleep. Being short on sleep can derail your fitness efforts. First, you’ll be too tired to fit in your workout. Second, sleepiness can cause you to crave high-sugar items in an attempt to gain more energy. And third, when you don’t get enough sleep, it can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to colds and flu. You can do yourself, and your fitness, a favor by not skimping on your rest.
Your resolve to succeed is your single best weapon
If you tell yourself you’ll stay fit during the holidays, then you will. Just remember that taking time for yourself is important—never feel guilty for scheduling time for a workout. And it’s OK to politely decline piles of holiday food. Don’t ever feel the need to overstuff yourself out of obligation.
Where will your next travel placement take you?
If you’re a travel nurse looking for your next position, MedPro Healthcare Staffing can help. We place travel nurses with positions across the country and we’ll work with you for a placement that matches your qualifications and career goals. To learn more, contact one of our experienced recruiters today.
