How to Lose Weight on a Cruise

 

Cruise vacations offer plenty of ways to relax and soak up the tropical sunshine. They also feature opportunities to sample the local cuisines and the onboard restaurant offerings resulting in several exciting ways to expand your foodie horizons. But here’s something you might not have considered: Cruises also offer fantastic ways to stay fit or start your journey to a newer, trimmer you.

If you’d like to work on losing weight, just focus on active days and healthy eating. Here are 9 ways you can maintain your diet or start to lose weight while you’re on a cruise.

1. Take the Stairs, Not the Elevator

Sometimes taking the elevator is ideal, such as when you’re pushing a stroller or need extra assistance reaching your destination. However, why not use the stairs whenever possible? It’s a fun way to get in some spur-of-the-moment exercise! And you don’t need to blast up the stairs at top speed either, unless that’s your goal. Walking up and down the stairs at a steady pace will burn off plenty of calories and help you get in shape.

2. Head to the Gym Each Morning

Starting your day at the fitness center is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping. You’ll feel the endorphins cruising through your body and you’ll be eager to start your day in the latest port of call. Just make sure you get to the gym first thing in the morning. The early bird gets the worm, after all.

3. Skip the Late-Night Munchies and Between-Meal Snacks

Eating late at night is a definite no-no. Not only can it keep you up late, but it can even cause you to pack on extra pounds. Plus, your digestive system works slower at night, which means you could end up with acid reflux. Yikes! You’ll also want to just aim for three small meals a day. Although eating between meals might give you a temporary energy boost, you’ll likely wind up eating the usual amount at the next meal. Besides, snacking might even lead to weight gain. And that’s the last thing you want!

4. Attend Dance Classes

Nothing gets your body moving like a spin out on the dance floor! Dance classes are sure to give you a great workout and an exhilarating experience. But don’t worry if none of your friends or family members want to join in. There will always be someone eager to step in and help you along as you learn the steps.

5. Hit the Jogging Track

The upper sports deck on every Carnival ship features a top-notch jogging track for your enjoyment. The track even has padding that acts as a shock absorber so you can focus on endurance and getting fit. As you work your way around the deck, whether strolling, power walking or jogging at top speed, you’ll have plenty of gorgeous skyline views interspersed with miles of deep blue sea. Want to capture the best vista views? Try to plan your jogs for early mornings or late evenings.

6. Take Part in Active Shore Excursions

Are you headed for The Bahamas or Alaska? What about Mexico or the Caribbean? You’ll find plenty of exciting shore excursions waiting for you at each destination. From kayaking and rafting, to extreme zip lining and adventure biking, there are numerous ways to stay active and take in the breathtaking views. You’ll have so much fun exploring new destinations that you’ll want to keep the good times rolling as long as possible.

7. Encourage Kids and Teens to Join Active Play

If you’re cruising with your family, encourage your kids and teens to stay active, too. There are several onboard activities designed with them in mind: Kids’ Active Play (for ages 2-11) and Teens’ Active Play (for ages 12-17). Here, your kids can hang out with others their age and enjoy plenty of energy-burning activities. Once you arrive at another port, your kids can continue the fun with shore excursions of all types.

8. Join in the Onboard Sports

Meet up with friends or make new ones as you take part in exciting sports games. Basketball, volleyball, and dodgeball games offer plenty of ways to enjoy time with friends in an active environment. You’ll also have access to SportsSquare, where additional activities like foosball, ping pong, the ropes course and more await.

9. Explore Ports of Call on Foot

Are you ready to gain a memorable experience? Just wander around your destination city on foot. Skip the bus tour or taxi ride; you won’t get the opportunity to see the city’s true beauty that way. As you meander along, you’ll have endless opportunities to get your heart pumping as you alternate between hilly inclines and low coastlines. Where you go is up to you.

From enjoying fun activities to delighting in simple yet healthy cruise food, you’ll have abundant opportunities to stay active and eat wisely – whether you’re onboard or at the latest port of call. Soon enough, you’ll be energized and enjoying your best health yet.