When it comes to maintaining your boxing training while traveling, preparation is key. Knowing what resources are available at your destination can help you stay on track and keep up with your regimen.
Identify Local Boxing Gyms: If you need access to a heavy bag or sparring ring, locate a local gym that specializes in boxing or other combat sports such as MMA or BJJ. Contact the gym ahead of your trip to discuss your training goals and arrange a visit. The boxing community is often welcoming, and you’re likely to find support and camaraderie.
Check for Fitness Centers: If you can’t find a boxing gym, look for general fitness centers. Many offer single-day guest passes or free access for members from other locations. Hotels often have fitness centers as well, which, while basic, can suffice in a pinch, especially if outdoor exercise isn’t an option due to weather.
Rent a Bicycle: Explore the city and get your exercise by renting a bike. Many metropolitan areas offer public bike-sharing systems, allowing you to save on transportation while staying active. Even in places without bike-sharing, traditional bike rental services are usually available.
Plan for How You Will Workout While Traveling
With knowledge of your available resources, plan your workout routine to ensure you meet your boxing fitness goals even while away from home.
Schedule Your Workouts: Regardless of your reason for traveling, incorporate workout times into your itinerary. Whether it’s a morning run to boost your cardio or an evening session shadowboxing in your hotel room, having a set plan ensures you don’t skip your workouts.
Adapt Your Routine: Make your travel workouts easier by reducing your dependency on heavy equipment. Focus on bodyweight exercises and boxing-specific drills. Shadowboxing, jump rope, and agility drills can maintain your conditioning. Incorporate push-ups, squat jumps, burpees, lunges, and seated dips for strength training.
Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your diet, steps, exercise, and sleep while traveling. Maintaining this habit will help you stay accountable and prevent you from straying too far from your routine, especially when surrounded by tempting local cuisines. You might find you’re more active than expected, particularly if you spend your days exploring or swimming.
Pack What You Need to Make Travel Workouts Possible
After planning your routine, pack essential boxing workout gear to support your training sessions.
Bring Portable Equipment: To ensure you can work out anywhere, pack lightweight, portable items:
- Jump Rope: Great for cardio and footwork training, requiring minimal space. It’s an excellent tool for boxers to maintain their conditioning.
- Resistance Bands: Compact and versatile, they can be used for a variety of strength-building exercises tailored to boxing movements.
- Boxing Gloves: You might be able to find a nearby fitness centre or boxing gym, and therefore it would be a good idea to bring your own gloves.
Choose Versatile Clothing: Pack a few sets of workout clothes and gym shoes. Consider athleisure wear—casual clothing made from technical fabrics that protect you from the sun, wick away sweat, and regulate temperature. This allows you to easily incorporate exercise into your day, even in regular clothes.
Enjoy Your Boxing Training While Traveling
There’s no doubt that it’s easy to knock yourself completely off track when you travel.
Spending a little time before you leave home to do some research will pay dividends later. With a plan in place, you won’t worry about “catching up” on lost training when you get home. Enjoy your trip and the unique opportunities it offers to stay active and healthy while continuing your boxing training.