Raise your hand if this has ever happened to you- you’ve nailed down a great fitness routine and your nutrition game is on point. You have been limiting your alcohol and taking better care of yourself all around. And then all of a sudden, BAM! You are hit with an invite to a bachelorette party with your girlfriends in a super fun city. Now you are stressing about completely ruining all of the progress you have made in the gym and just know you are going to be bloated for weeks after the trip because of all the delicious food and the crazy amount of booze. Sound familiar? If you are currently in your 20’s, your next few months (or possibly all of 2018) may be filled with bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and of course, weddings. Now don’t get me wrong, this isn’t a bad thing. I mean, who doesn’t love celebrating their BFF’s, dressing up and traveling to new places? However, it does indeed put a wrench in your plan to stay on track with your work outs and clean eating.
So, the question is- how can I attend all of these wonderful wedding events without getting off track with fitness and nutrition? Don’t worry, I am here with a few simple ideas to help you navigate the tricky (and tipsy) road ahead.
Idea #1: Work Out: Why does it matter that you are out of town? Is your city the only one with a gym in it? I think not! Do a little research a find out which gyms are where you are staying. Let the gym know you are in town for a few days and need a weekend pass. Staying in a hotel? Even better! Figure out which floor the gym is on and get to work. You may have to wake up an hour before everyone else in order to get into the gym and not miss brunch, but who cares? It will give you an hour to yourself to sweat out all the toxins and prepare for the fun day ahead. It isn’t about having the time; it’s about making it.
Idea #2: Bridesmaid Bootcamp: Now, if you don’t have a car to travel to a gym, and the closest one is too far to walk, I have an alternative solution. Grab the group of girls, head outside, and run your own mini boot camp! I did this (per the bride’s request) for my very best friend’s bachelorette party in Nashville and it was a blast. We used the driveway and front porch, ran through a few body weight circuits, and sprinted and lunged up and down the driveway. By the end we were dripping sweat, but felt so much better. We all threw on our bathing suits and jumped in the pool after (and made a few mimosas, I mean protein shakes, to sip on in the sunshine).
Idea #3: Balance Your Meals: As soon as you all arrive, suggest making a trip to the grocery store. If you are hanging out with a group that doesn’t pay much attention to proper nutrition, grab a basket and shop on your own. Just let them know you need to be conscious of what you eat so you don’t feel guilty the entire trip. Buy simple things you can have for breakfast and lunch (eggs, fruit, yogurt, oatmeal, lunch meat, nuts, etc.). Try and eat at least 2 out of your 3 meals at the Air B&B or hotel, and then enjoy your third at a yummy restaurant. You will save money, and calories, and not suffer from food drama or remorse.
These ideas are all very realistic no matter where you are traveling or what the occasion may be. Making excuses as to why you can’t work out or eat clean when you are away from home will not help you in the long run, these excuses will just hinder your progress. Always remember that planning is your key to success. Fail to plan, plan to fail. So, next time you are packing for a bachelorette party, throw in a few pairs of leggings, sports bras, tanks and your running shoes. Promise yourself that nothing will get in your way of achieving a healthier you.