Staying in shape on a cruise: Make a fitness schedule

I know, you’re on vacation and the last thing you want to worry about is working out.  However, it’s important to stick to a routine. Since my upcoming cruise is 15 nights, I need to settle into some type of normalcy as that adds up to a lot of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners which all are filled with lots of temptations.   I always make a fitness schedule before a cruise, that way I know my expectations and it helps me stick to the plan.

Holland America ms Prinsendam Fitness Center

When I get on a new ship, one of the first things I do is go on a tour to become familiar with everything. I always go to the fitness center and look at the facilities.  This way, I’m already comfortable and know where I’m going when I decide to work-out.  It makes walking in the first time a lot easier.

Celebrity Century Fitness Room

For more information on the fitness rooms at sea, read my previous post, "Want the best view on a Cruise Ship? Jump on a Treadmill."

Since I enjoy being active, I’ll typically take advantage of a port day to get out of the fitness room and enjoy my time in a new place.  For instance, here are a few activities that I plan on doing while in port:

Kayaking
Approximately 375 calories burned per hour during a moderate, steady paddle (based on a 165lb person) according to www.livestrong.com 

Snorkeling
Approximately 250 calories burned per hour (based on a 165lb person) according to www.fitday.com

Hiking
Approximately 430 and 440 calories per hour of hiking, depends on terrain (based on 160lb person) according to www.livestrong.com

Walking
Approximately 358 calories when walking at 4 mph  (based on 150lb person) according to www.livestrong.com

FreshCruiser Tip: And of course, I always take the stairs on the cruise ship to burn a few more calories.