It’s a new year—a fresh start—and people everywhere are resolving to have a healthier, happier lifestyle. Good Sam members are no exception, but it can be tough to maintain a routine of healthy eating and exercise when you’re traveling. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend in your RV or going on a cross-country journey, you can enjoy yourself without taking a vacation from your health. Here are nine easy-to-follow tips to help you stay on track.
Take a Hike. It’s easy to become complacent in your RV, surrounded by all the comforts of home, but RV parks are meant for getting outdoors. Walk wherever you go, and take advantage of hiking paths and nature trails.
Join the Fun. Many RV parks encourage physical fitness with group activities like water aerobics, line dancing and tai chi. Participate, and you’ll not only stay fit, you’ll get to know your fellow RVers.
Don’t Pack Light. Load your RV with bicycles, racquets, kayaks, golf clubs, fishing poles, swim fins and walking shoes and make exercise a part of your daily routine. Take advantage of the recreational facilities at each RV park you visit to get your heart rate going.
Cook in Your RV. Shop at roadside produce stands and farmers’ markets, then prepare these fresh, local foods in your RV’s galley. The memorable meals and health benefits are worth the extra effort.
Eat Your Vegetables. Meat isn’t the enemy, but it shouldn’t be the whole meal. Prepare small amounts of meat or fish along with healthy portions of fruits, vegetables and grains.
Switch to Whole Grains. Diets rich in whole-grain foods are healthier, but identifying them at the store can be tricky. Look for “whole wheat” as the first ingredient on the label.
Prepare for Potlucks. Enjoy the social benefits of campground potlucks, but don’t overindulge in cheesy casseroles, chocolaty deserts and second helpings. To avoid overeating, take a healthy main dish or green salad and savor the company, not the calories.
Downsize. Don’t Supersize. When you do dine out, consider splitting your meal to reduce the large restaurant portions. We’re eating 300 more calories than we did in 1985—enough to gain a pound nearly every 11 days.
Be Proactive: Monitor your health with the Good Sam Club’s Smile and Save discount on a wide variety of preventive health screenings. Visit the Life Line Screenings page on the Good Sam website to find out more about this timely member benefit.
Good Sam
Glen – we’re so sorry to hear that you have had a recent stay in the hospital. We hope you get well soon!
Glen
I spent the New Year in the Hospital while the Tips here are great I unfortunatly have problems with them veggies that cause gas maybe what sent me to the hospital and I love my veggies, also i am unable to walk very far or ride a bike, I am also a disabled veteran.