Health advice for small-business travelers

Posted by citiYellow

Saturday, 21 January 2012 07:34

When you're home, it is probably easier to work out and watch what you eat. But on the road, it can be a challenge to maintain healthy habits.

Packing in as much work as possible to maximize the cost benefits of your trip can leave you with little time to take care of yourself while you're taking care of business. One solution is to fit fitness in wherever you can, whether it's simply avoiding high-calorie temptations or setting the alarm 30 minutes early so you can hit the hotel's fitness center before breakfast.

No matter how well you time your air travel, flying requires you to spend a significant amount of time in airports - where there's little to do but shop, watch TV, surf the Web or eat less-than-healthful airport food.

The good news is, plenty of airports are now offering healthier eating options and you can pick up a fresh, tasty salad to take with you on the plane rather than settling for a greasy burger on a stale bun.

Another way to secure more appealing, healthier fare in the airport is to frequent airline lounges. You can easily obtain airport club access with some business credit cards. For example, American Express Business Platinum cardholders enjoy free access for themselves and two traveling companions to the airport lounges of American Airlines, Delta and U.S. Airways.

With food options improving, it's up to you to sneak in some exercise while you're waiting at the airport.

While standing in the security line, practice deep breathing and simple stretching exercises, like lifting up on your toes or rocking back on your heels. Roll your head gently to the right, and then back to the left. Hunch your shoulders and then relax. Not only will the stretching relax tight muscles, it can help soothe you mentally too, relieving some of the stress and impatience of waiting in security lines.

Continue your gentle stretching on board the plane. Stand up and walk around when the pilot turns the "fasten seatbelts" sign off - especially if you're on a long flight. Extended periods of sitting in one position at high altitude can lead to potentially deadly blood clots.

When you arrive at your hotel, acquaint yourself with the exercise options it offers. Most hotels now offer fitness rooms. Some high-end properties have full workout facilities and spas available for guest use. Learn the fitness room hours and plan to start your day a bit early to squeeze in some workout time. Even just 20 minutes of light cardio exercise in the morning can help you feel more energized throughout the day.

At lunchtime, take a walk around the neighborhood. If you'll be dining with colleagues, request to go somewhere within walking distance.

Working in some exercise while you're still working can be a rewarding way to feel better about your fitness efforts - while still getting the job done.