Travel Health and Fitness - How much fitness crap do you travel with?

It seems I'm to the point that I have to take my large suitcase even for 4-5 day trips. Gone are the days that I carry on for a week trip.

Use to be:
work clothes
work out clothes
running shoes (dual purpose running and gym)

Now I've added:
Workout DVDs
Workout Bands in a bag
Blender
Shake mix
recovery drink mix
cup (to mix recovery drink in)
Spin shoes


UGH!

I'm still at

sports bras (which I use for anything that involves my moving around a lot, such as the concerts I'm going to in February)
specifically workout shirts
workout shorts
extra socks
sneakers (which are technically running shoes)

as well as whatever else I'd usually bring.

It seems I'm to the point that I have to take my large suitcase even for 4-5 day trips. Gone are the days that I carry on for a week trip.

Use to be:
work clothes
work out clothes
running shoes (dual purpose running and gym)

Now I've added:
Workout DVDs
Workout Bands in a bag
Blender
Shake mix
recovery drink mix
cup (to mix recovery drink in)
Spin shoes


UGH!

used to:

weight belt
gloves
wrist wraps
sneakers
gym clothes

now:

gloves
sneakers
gym clothes

but to be fair,

other than the workout gloves, I'd take shorts and T shirts along with sneakers even if I wasn't working out

other than the workout gloves, I'd take shorts and T shirts along with sneakers even if I wasn't working out

I think I'd probably just take jeans, t-shirts and shoes.

I'm obviously now checking my bag each time I travel. Worth it so far for me as it feels like I'm saving a ton of time working out at home/hotel vs shlepping to the gym all the time (down to 2-3 times/week at the actual gym)

Typically just the following--

for running and/or gym--
running shoes
shorts (that can be used for running or gym)
2 shirts (a sleeveless and short sleeve, possibly a long sleeve, depending on weather)
2-3 pairs of athletic socks
Garmin watch, charger, computer USB, HR monitor, and old iPhone case (contains an extra Amex and a passport card that I carry for running), sunglasses, running earbuds (I wear Sennheiser twist-to-fit)
sometimes weightlifting gloves

if racing/doing long training runs my 2 bottle Nathan water belt

for swimming--
board shorts
1 mesh drag suit
2 brief suits (just in case one tears or something)
2 goggles (1 tinted and 1 clear)
1 Speedo swim chamois towel

I roll the board shorts around everything else.


If I'm not planning to run/lift, I can fit the swimming stuff (in the board shorts) in my backpack. Otherwise, it all easily fits in a roller bag.

Mine depends on what I'm training for at the time
Half Marathon Training
running shoes
running shorts
sports bras
heart rate monitor (comes with me every week)
running tights depending on the weather
sleeves depending on weather
ear warmers
Nike+ iPod thingie

Tri Training
all of the above
2 swimsuits
goggles
fins
paddles
waterproof iPod case (it makes the long swims much more bearable)

I used to travel with a yoga mat, but I've ditched that in favor of Clorox wipes for the studio provided mats (I'm slightly OCD)

gym clothes
gym shoes

then I go to the hotel' fitness and do what I can until unch time comes :rolleyes:

Usually don't pack fitness clothes.. except a pair of swim trunks usually and some t-shirts for casual wear..

Fairmonts where we stay at provides a program called Fairmont Fit.. A complete set of top, shorts, shoes and socks.. delivered clean right to the room..

Fairmonts where we stay at provides a program called Fairmont Fit.. A complete set of top, shorts, shoes and socks.. delivered clean right to the room..

Wow....I've never heard of anything like that.

Wow....I've never heard of anything like that.

Yea, I'm pretty sure none of the Hamptons where I "live" during the work week offer that :)

Usually don't pack fitness clothes.. except a pair of swim trunks usually and some t-shirts for casual wear..

Fairmonts where we stay at provides a program called Fairmont Fit.. A complete set of top, shorts, shoes and socks.. delivered clean right to the room..

I've heard about this program too. But I don't like the idea of using someone else's gym shoes or clothing... Unless everything is brand new, and even then, I'd still want my own running shoes (I'm pretty particular about them).

When I run, I'll sometimes get a blister, a hangnail, or whatever on a foot that could cause cuts/bruises...and I'd assume others do too. Just kinda creeps me out to wear someone else's socks (or underwear), even if it is washed. Running shoes can wear differently. And don't even get me started on chest chaffing...

I've heard about this program too. But I don't like the idea of using someone else's gym shoes or clothing... Unless everything is brand new, and even then, I'd still want my own running shoes (I'm pretty particular about them).

When I run, I'll sometimes get a blister, a hangnail, or whatever on a foot that could cause cuts/bruises...and I'd assume others do too. Just kinda creeps me out to wear someone else's socks (or underwear), even if it is washed. Running shoes can wear differently. And don't even get me started on chest chaffing...

For running the shoes would be a deal breaker....I'm not going to wear new shoes or someone elses shoes for a run of any length.

For the gym, I'm not sure it would matter much to me.....it is a bit weird to think about. What kind of clothes are these? Can the poster provide us with brand names for the clothes?

Wow....I've never heard of anything like that.

I've heard about this program too. But I don't like the idea of using someone else's gym shoes or clothing... Unless everything is brand new, and even then, I'd still want my own running shoes (I'm pretty particular about them).

When I run, I'll sometimes get a blister, a hangnail, or whatever on a foot that could cause cuts/bruises...and I'd assume others do too. Just kinda creeps me out to wear someone else's socks (or underwear), even if it is washed. Running shoes can wear differently. And don't even get me started on chest chaffing...

The program extends to a personal profile where you select size of shirt, shorts and size of running shoes.. The clothes is delivered in a basket and free for elite members to use (Premier and Platinum).. I find it quite convenient, and is completely clean like new.. There is a charge for regular FPC members..

I can't say if its new clothes, or clothes that are well cleaned.. but certainly looks brand new.. and for my purposes it beats having to bring my own stuff, as we have a family with 2 small kids.. and usually have 7 carryons and 3 checked bags, plus a stroller when travelling..

I can't say if its new clothes, or clothes that are well cleaned.. but certainly looks brand new.. and for my purposes it beats having to bring my own stuff, as we have a family with 2 small kids.. and usually have 7 carryons and 3 checked bags, plus a stroller when travelling..

What brand of shoes?

Maybe snap a pic of the clothes and post it next time?

I find it an interesting program.

What brand of shoes?

Maybe snap a pic of the clothes and post it next time?

I find it an interesting program.

Click on below link to go to website and pictures..:)

http://www.fairmont.com/fpc/fit



"Fairmont Fit adidas Apparel For Men*

Fairmont Fit, A Fairmont President's Club Benefit

Stay Fit While on the Road


Whether you’ve forgotten your fitness gear, prefer a lean carry-on to save time at the airport, or just want a private workout in your room, staying fit at Fairmont is just a phone call away.

Fairmont Fit provides adidas workout apparel and shoes, a MP3 player and a yoga mat with stretch band, all which can be delivered directly to your room upon request.

Fairmont Fit is available to all members of Fairmont President’s Club and is complimentary for Premier and Platinum members. There is a small service charge for Club members.

How to stay fit with Fairmont*:
adidas Workout Apparel: Clothing includes t-shirt, shorts (for men) and capris (for women).Request your specific clothing and shoe sizes at time of reservation and clothing and footwear will be delivered to your room for your arrival. Workout gear is available for the duration of your stay and can be replenished at any time.

As a Fairmont President’s Club member your clothing sizes will be appended to your personal travel profile, this will allow you to enjoy Fairmont Fit each time you stay with us*.

Select adidas products will be available for purchase, at participating hotels and resorts in North America.

MP3 Player: Music is pre-loaded with tracks from various artists.
Available upon in-hotel request for use during your stay.

Yoga Mat & Stretch Band: Request at time of reservation and a yoga mat with stretch band will be delivered to your room for your arrival.

The Fairmont Fit benefit is unavailable at the following hotels: Fairmont Kenauk at Le Château Montebello, Fairmont Heliopolis, Fairmont The Norfolk, Mount Kenya Safari Club, Fairmont Mara Safari Club, and Fairmont Zimbali Lodge.
MP3 player, yoga mat/strech band, adidas apparel and shoes are all subject to hotel availability. Fairmont Hotels and Resorts may carry different items than what is shown below.

The following men's workout apparel will be made available in the following sizes, upon request, to members of Fairmont President's Club at select Fairmont properties.

Clima Loose-Fit Short Sleeve Top (Sizes: Small to 2X - Large)
For fit and function, this shirt is more than just a basic. It's an essential. Slightly looser cut lets you move with comfort, while the ClimaLite® fabric keeps heat under control by sweeping sweat away from your skin.

Clima Loose Fit Short (Sizes: Small to 2X - Large)
With a slightly relaxed fit ideal for working out these shorts will be a welcome addition to your training sessions. Unlined, loose fit; Side-seam pockets and drawcord at elastic waist. ClimaLite® fabric also helps you stay dry and comfortable.

Adistar Control - Men's Running Shoe (Sizes: 8 - 15)
A luxury-training shoe that will give you a smooth, even ride, you need the adiStar Control. Biomechanical tests prove that its redesigned Ground Control System in the rear foot slows overpronation velocity better than any other shoe on the market. Add to that the lightweight motion control of Pro- moderator, and a breathable, quick-drying mesh upper with GeoFit heel and collar lining that follows the shape of your foot and you have a stability shoe that is simply unmatched.

Fairmont Fit adidas Apparel For Women*

The women's workout apparel includes the following items made available upon request to members of Fairmont President's Club at select Fairmont properties.

Women's ClimaLite Loose-Fit Short-Sleeve (Sizes: Small to X-Large)
Workouts are a breeze in this comfortable short sleeve tee. The slightly loose fit makes it easy to move, while the ClimaLite® fabric sweeps sweat away from your skin.

ClimaLite Loose-Fit Capri (Sizes: Small to X - Large)
With a free and easy fit, these capris are all about comfort. Theloose-cut design is enhanced with ClimaLite(r) to sweep sweat away fromyour skin as you work out. 21' inseam (size Med) ClimaLite(r) fabric sweeps sweat away from your skin Drawcord at elastic waist Applied 3-Stripes down legs Embroidered adidas brandmark on left thigh 100% polyester interlock.

Women's Supernova Cushion (Sizes: 5 - 10)
Hundreds of thousands of runners can't be wrong. This is one of the most-beloved cushioning shoes on the road today. Designed to take you far quickly, this latest generation offers greater comfort and breathability with even less weight than before.

For more information about adidas, visit www.adidas.com."

It seems I'm to the point that I have to take my large suitcase even for 4-5 day trips. Gone are the days that I carry on for a week trip.

Use to be:
work clothes
work out clothes
running shoes (dual purpose running and gym)

Now I've added:
Workout DVDs
Workout Bands in a bag
Blender
Shake mix
recovery drink mix
cup (to mix recovery drink in)
Spin shoes


UGH!

I'm a strength and conditioning coach, certified sports nutritionist (not RD) and former bodybuilder so I had my fair amount of traveling carrying lots of stuff/food with me. Especially when I had full teams to work with.

My advice to you would be to simplify...considerably. It's impressive that you have managed to keep this up for an extended period of time but in your case...the blender (your protein powder that crappy?) and your spin shoes could stay home. Unless you absolutely MUST have your spin shoes and you spin everyday.

Regarding the actual recovery mix, I don't know what product you are taking or if you're sticking to very specific macronutrients but it could be easily substituted with food at your destination. If not, ziploc bag + empty shaker would certainly do the trick.

I'm sure it's much tougher for females but as a male, sneakers and shorts are the most important thing. Everything else I could compromise and/or improvise.

My advice to you would be to simplify...considerably. It's impressive that you have managed to keep this up for an extended period of time but in your case...the blender (your protein powder that crappy?) and your spin shoes could stay home. Unless you absolutely MUST have your spin shoes and you spin everyday.


Thanks for the advice. I'm always changing and trying to find what works.

Blender is a very small personal one....but I do like the "smoothy/shake" feel when drinking that stuff. For me its like a "treat" that cuts down on my cravings for sweets. I find just mixing it with milk/water and not having it shake like doesn't have the same mental effect on me.

Bike shoes- 2xs week when on the road during the winter (mon and wed normally)....I ride by actual bike a bit (2-4xweeek on the road) when the weather is nice and I'm longer term somewhere (where its afforable to ship my backup bike). I could probably do without them during spin but no way to ride my current real bike without them.



Regarding the actual recovery mix, I don't know what product you are taking or if you're sticking to very specific macronutrients but it could be easily substituted with food at your destination. If not, ziploc bag + empty shaker would certainly do the trick.

Substituted with food would be GREAT but I can't seem to do it.

I do the ziploc for both my protein and my recovery (actually 2 small ziplocs inside a gallon sized one)

I'm sure it's much tougher for females but as a male, sneakers and shorts are the most important thing. Everything else I could compromise and/or improvise.

My screen name is misleading....I am a male.
I was clothes and sneakers for years (probably near a decade). Its early (only 7 weeks in) but I'm finding the benefit of working out in my room with this P90x is a HUGE benefit for me....well worth shlepping around the bands/dvds....so far.

I'm sure I'll miss lifting heavy soon enough and be back into the gym.

Click on below link to go to website and pictures..:)
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awesome program.

Can you tell me what ballpark you nightly rate is? I think I could dig a program like that.

awesome program.

Can you tell me what ballpark you nightly rate is? I think I could dig a program like that.

Noting that the program is free for Premier and Platinum members.. there is a charge for base FPC members IIRC.

Retail ranges.. you can get rates as low or even lower than $99 per night using Great rates Great dates (prepaid and offered for the first week of the month).. and up to $3,000 per night.. so it ranges..

If a person knows an employee, they can access friends and family rates, which is fully cancellable.

Theres always specials and packages available for each specific hotel at www.fairmont.com .. If you use say www.perfectescapes.com , you can get free breakfast, and/or free upgrades etc. at Fairmont Hotels around the world..

Another fan of Fairmont Fit. I've never had a problem with the clothes, if I was going to do a very long run then I'd bring my own shoes but for the elliptical or weights it's great.

From my past experience the shoes are in very good shape and the socks typically are brand new I'd say, or could easily pass for excellent condition.

Another fan of Fairmont Fit. I've never had a problem with the clothes, if I was going to do a very long run then I'd bring my own shoes but for the elliptical or weights it's great.

From my past experience the shoes are in very good shape and the socks typically are brand new I'd say, or could easily pass for excellent condition.

The fitness rooms are usually of very good quality.. and free access for FPC members..

and its free to sign up to become a Fairmont President's Club Member.. With membership, you get free internet, free local phone calls, free local paper, etc..

What a great topic :-)

My list:
- Running shoes ; which I wear on the plane and for city discoveries too - multifunctional
- TShirt(s) ; which I can wear also outside the gym, during evening or city discovery
- Sports shorts ; which I can use in the swimming pool as well

All the other gear takes up too much space in my optimized carry-on allowed Samsonite suitcase which contains all clothes for up to 10-day trips.

HOWEVER - I usually find either in a local gym, in the airport (US is great for this) or in a local store some protein bars / shakes as hotel gyms usually don't carry them. And...they are needed for that 5AM still-with-jetlag workout without breakfast :-)

I carry my minimal running shoes (fold flat, 9oz each), 2 in 1 shorts, and Under Armour workout shirt (sink wash, dry overnight) I wear my Garmin watch, and carry my HRM as well.

I made arrangements at my main project site to get discounted gym memberships for my staff and day passes for me and other travelers when we're up there. The hotel gym equipment is very tired to say the least.

...and my iPod...always.

...and my iPod...always.


Redbeard!!! Its been a while man. How have you been?





I should add Ipod to my list also.

Just read this online somewhere in the last week:

"Last year, Westin Hotels & Resorts began lending guests New Balance sneakers and workout apparel to help reduce bulk in carry-on bags. Shoes come with new socks; sports shirts, pants and bras are washed between workouts, and shoe soles replaced.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts offers a free similar program with Adidas gear for elite members of its loyalty program or $10 per stay for other members."

Cheers.

I did a mileage run to Boston Fri/Sat, and did part of a swim meet while there Sat morning. I only took a backpack with me, and my fitness crap included:
* 3 pairs of goggles
* 4 suits (training brief & dragsuit, 2 comp suits)
* swim shammy

I ended up using 3 of the 4 suits (I usually wear a brief & dragsuit to warm up, wore one comp suit but was glad I had a backup), and 2 of the 3 goggles (I switched to my usual mirrored goggles for my last event, and again glad to have a backup).

I also 'borrowed' a towel from the hotel I stayed at the night prior.

Usually don't pack fitness clothes.. except a pair of swim trunks usually and some t-shirts for casual wear..

Fairmonts where we stay at provides a program called Fairmont Fit.. A complete set of top, shorts, shoes and socks.. delivered clean right to the room..

You gotta' love Fairmont. My favorite upscale brand hotel for sure. ^

I used to travel with exercise bands to attach to the door and get weight training/rowing, and a wheel for abdominal. Gloves, sweats, trunks, goggles to swim, and running shoes.

Now I just bring swim trunks (double as workout shorts), athletic tee shirt, goggles to swim, running shoes and socks, and finally really thin biking gloves that I use for light weight training. My days of heavy lifting are over. Just want to be tone.

Your best bet for overall exercise is swimming laps. If I can't find a pool long enough to do this without kick-turning every three or four strokes, I find a gym or use the hotel gym. Worst case, I'll run stairwells if no gym or workout room in hotel, then go back to the room for pushups, situps, stretching, etc. This is assuming I'm at a city hotel where I can't run outside, or it horrible outside and I have to say in. Otherwise, I'll go out and run.

You gotta' love Fairmont. My favorite upscale brand hotel for sure. ^

I used to travel with exercise bands to attach to the door and get weight training/rowing, and a wheel for abdominal. Gloves, sweats, trunks, goggles to swim, and running shoes.

Now I just bring swim trunks (double as workout shorts), athletic tee shirt, goggles to swim, running shoes and socks, and finally really thin biking gloves that I use for light weight training. My days of heavy lifting are over. Just want to be tone.

Your best bet for overall exercise is swimming laps. If I can't find a pool long enough to do this without kick-turning every three or four strokes, I find a gym or use the hotel gym. Worst case, I'll run stairwells if no gym or workout room in hotel, then go back to the room for pushups, situps, stretching, etc. This is assuming I'm at a city hotel where I can't run outside, or it horrible outside and I have to say in. Otherwise, I'll go out and run.

We're again in Hawaii for spring break and was trying to avoid my beloved Orchid.. my wife wanted to try different islands completely and was deadset against going back to the same place again this year..

So we're doing Oahu, but I ended up booking 10 nights in an Ocean Front 1,477 sq ft Suite at the Orchid on the big Island again.. Lots of reason to go back and have the luxurious same.. Plus the daily fruit plate when staying 10 nights is a plus..

The Fairmont Fit is nice as I jump into the outfit in the morning and do a morning run.. very convenient.. buy I'm used to going to the Y and getting my laundry done in a bag..

On top of that on an extended stay if needed, they'll change the outfit if needed..

I bring running shoes and gym clothes. I research and pony up for day passes to local gyms. I really like lifting and yoga classes and I've yet to find a hotel gym that offered me an adequate substitute for a gym.

It can be pretty fun. One of the best workouts I ever had was a 2-hour boxing class. I'd never even considered trying it - nothing like it offered where I live. What an incredible workout! (Not to mention what I learned about boxing).

A couple of others: a 'balls' class - big balls, medicine balls, all balls - challenging, different, fun. And a small class (8 people) on treadmills - that was kind of cool.

A couple of others: a 'balls' class - big balls, medicine balls, all balls - challenging, different, fun.

So many inappropriate comments ;)

But seriously that does sound pretty fun

So many inappropriate comments ;)

But seriously that does sound pretty fun

Yeah, plenty of remarks came to mind throughout the class, too. You set up at the beginning with an assortment of different size/weight balls...and you can guess the opening line...

It was a much better workout than expected - fast-paced, high reps, you can definitely get a workout with the heavier medicine balls (I like weight) and the really small heavy ones reminded me of working with the (?) kettle weights. Some killer core work on a big ball while holding a heavy medicine ball - I felt that for a few days after whenever I laughed.

I really enjoy it when I'm kind of on my game and then I take a new class or mix up my routine and really feel it afterwards. I guess it's the difference between maintenance mode and breaking new ground. "Hurts so good...." :p

I felt that for a few days after whenever I laughed.


Sore abs....one of the best feelings out there!


"Hurts so good...." :p

+1000