Have you taken a look at my recent post on Travel-Friendly Workouts? If so, then you know that I firmly believe that your body is your greatest piece of equipment when it comes to exercise. Bodyweight by itself is still challenging, especially when it comes to moves like Pistol Squats and Handstands.
While the tools to support your training should be regarded as supplements- not really necessary, but still valuable- there are a few pieces of equipment that are easy for you to take while traveling. Over the years, I’ve spoken about the impact the holidays tend to have on our fitness, and how we end up giving in to pressure and skipping exercise altogether. Remember, exercise should not be considered a chore, but instead looked at as a way of life. It’s important to get some movement in even during the hustle and bustle of the holidays- it’s exercise, as well as an investment in mental and emotional well-being!

Here are some travel-friendly pieces of equipment that you can use during your time away from home:

Sliders

Great for low-impact exercises to strengthen your entire body, for beginners and advanced.

Sliders for Carpet

Sliders for Hardwood Floors

Power Bands

Adds an extra challenge to bodyweight exercises, especially for the lower body.

These are so portable that they fit in either a purse or backpack!

Power Bands

Yoga Strap

I’ve recently introduced these into the ZGYM, so I’m still very new to using them. They’re going to help with different exercises as well as improving flexibility. (Alternatively, you can use a Pull Up Assist Band, but it’s not going to be as soft and comfortable as the Yoga Strap.)

Jump Rope

This portable tool is super effective for getting in fat burning cardio no matter where you go.

Jump Rope

(If you’re staying somewhere with low ceilings, try taking an Airope with you.)

Creative Tools You Don’t Need to Pack

You may not even have to pack anything! When you set your mind to it, your environment becomes your own gym. Aside from using your body as weight, look around your room for these things the next time you workout (I guarantee that 99.9% of all places have these):

Towel

Use for: In place of a yoga strap and mat to provide extra cushioning. Some people prefer to pack their own yoga mat, but some of us it’s a nuisance, and using a towel as a replacement is just fine. Bonus: Depending on where you’re staying, if the floor is not made of carpet (i.e., hardwood or tile), you can try using them in place of sliders!

Chair

Use for: An elevated surface for a number of exercises, like Step-Ups, Elevated Lunge, Push Ups, and Squats (Here’s a Chair-Inspired 5 Minute Fat Burning Workout you can use for inspiration!)

Wall

Use for: Handstands, Handstand Jump Tuck, Wall Sits, Wall Jumps, and Wall Planks (note: you can also use a door if you’re concerned about leaving any marks). Don’t think you can do much with a wall? Have a look at ZWOW #17.

Bed

Use for: Dips, Elevated Lunges, Push Ups, Plank, and even light stretching. Think of it as another elevated surface for use.