If, like me, you aim to maintain your fitness routine while traveling, you might find yourself searching for various adventurous methods to discover how to stay active in the new places you visit.

Sometimes just finding a good, reasonably priced gym is the best way to do this.

That’s not why you clicked on this post though.

I’m here to show you these handpicked fitness travel destinations that not only fuel your muscle journey but also offer unique experiences. With scientific insights on the specific reasons behind choosing these destinations.

Chiang Mai -Thailand
Omis - Croatia
Colorado - USA
Sierra Nevada - California (USA)
Tuscany - Italy
Engleberg - Switzerland
The Alps - France, Austria, and Germany
Barcelona - Spain
Santorini - Greece
Cuzco - Peru
Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) - Georgia
Marrakech - Morocco
Pokhara - Nepal
Zhangjiajie - China

Working out while travelling (the science)

What to look out for on your travel workouts

Wild workout & final thoughts

Working out while travelling (the science)

Finding a gym abroad is definitely a must for me but the ways to keep my fitness while travelling don't end there.

There are some places where you want to not only explore but also give your muscles the appropriate fuel and workout necessary to grow and maintain while travelling.

So why not do both?

I've curated this list primarily because the consistently mild to hot climates throughout the year can prove advantageous for your muscles and workouts.

Let's delve into the science behind what I mean.

Here is a post from ManhattanCardiology.com called “Pros and Cons to working out in the summer heat”, to summarise:

While outdoor workouts offer benefits such as increased calorie burn, enhanced cardiovascular endurance, vitamin D exposure, and mental health benefits, there are risks like dehydration and decreased performance. Safety precautions, including hydration, appropriate attire, sunscreen, and awareness of air quality, are emphasized. The page is associated with Manhattan Cardiology, highlighting its services, patient testimonials, and locations.

There has also been evidence that saunas can help with muscle recovery as seen in Dr Andrew Huberman’s findings in his post “Deliberate Heat Exposure Protocols For Health”. To summarise:

Huberman Lab discusses deliberate heat exposure protocols for health and performance. Dr Andrew Huberman outlines three protocols using deliberate heat exposure to enhance health, mood, and longevity. The protocols involve sauna sessions tailored for cardiovascular health, improved mood, stress response, and growth hormone release.

He also mentions this on his X (formally twitter) feed - Dr Andrew Huberman X post.

Another criterion I considered for these destinations is the presence of untamed rivers, offering opportunities for refreshing cold plunges—an additional element for muscle recovery and an adventurous twist to your workout routine.

Below is a video on Dr. Andrew Huberman explaining the benefits of cold therapy.

Deliberate Cold Exposure — How to Do it RIGHT with Dr. Andrew Huberman | The Proof Podcast EP 205

Finally, another factor for selecting these destinations involves the altitude and the beneficial impact of being near areas with a moderate to higher elevation.

There is a review based on this on Sciencedirect.com called “Hypoxic training methods for improving endurance exercise performance”. To summarise:

The study emphasizes the effectiveness of Live High-Train Low (LHTL) models, where athletes live at moderate altitude and train at lower altitudes. Overall, altitude training, especially LHTL models, is identified as a valuable strategy to enhance oxygen transport and improve sea-level performance in endurance athletes.

_{Click on the links to read the full studies/posts/reviews.}

Now the science is out of the way, here is the list of destinations that would be great to travel to for you fitness enthusiasts:

Chiang Mai - Thailand

Not only does Chiang Mai check off all the criteria but it is also great to visit for several other reasons. The people are lovely, most areas are generally cheaper than the West, the food is amazing, and there are plenty of places to get much-needed massages after your wild workouts.

Location Overview: Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its rich culture and serene landscapes.
Unique Activities: Explore ancient temples, engage in Muay Thai training, and trek through lush jungles for a holistic fitness experience.
Notable Landmarks: Do yoga at Wat Phra Singh or cycle around the scenic Old City for a blend of culture and fitness.

Omis - Croatia

I use Omis as the go-to in Croatia but really there are a number of places in Croatia that can make the grade. Omis really is perfect for this though because in some areas the water that runs down these mountains remains inside the mountain so it never sees the light and more importantly the sun's heat. The water is freezing year round.

Location Overview: Situated on the Adriatic coast, Omis is a charming town surrounded by mountains and the Cetina River.
Unique Activities: Rock climb the stunning Omis cliffs, kayak along the Cetina River, and enjoy seaside runs for an active coastal retreat.
Notable Landmarks: The Mirabella Fortress offers panoramic views, and the Cetina Canyon provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.

Omis, Croatia

Engleberg - Switzerland

Embark on a fitness journey in Engelberg, Switzerland, a charming town beyond the Alps, where picturesque landscapes and serene surroundings offer a unique blend of outdoor activities, including high-altitude fitness adventures, against the backdrop of iconic Swiss beauty.

Location Overview: Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Engelberg is a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills, lush meadows, and pristine lakes, offering a tranquil escape for health and fitness travel enthusiasts.
Unique Activities: Explore Engelberg's scenic trails for invigorating hikes, indulge in outdoor yoga sessions, and experience high-altitude fitness with stunning views of the surrounding Swiss landscapes.
Notable Landmarks: Engelberg Abbey, with its historic architecture, provides a cultural touch to your fitness journey, while Titlis, the highest mountain in the region, offers a challenging ascent for those seeking an adventurous workout in this Swiss haven.

Sierra Nevada - California (USA)

With Yosemite National Park nearby you do not need to be persuaded to visit this area.

Location Overview: The Sierra Nevada in California is renowned for its alpine scenery, including Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park.
Unique Activities: Ski in Lake Tahoe, hike in Yosemite, and partake in outdoor yoga sessions for a balanced fitness journey.
Notable Landmarks: Yosemite's El Capitan offers challenging climbs, and Lake Tahoe provides a refreshing backdrop for water-based activities.

Tuscany - Italy

Italy can endure scorching summers, especially with recent heatwaves, and the further south you go the more this weather holds out for most of the year.

Italy is a mountainous country with the Apennines running down the middle of the country and the Alps to the north there is an abundance of water, streams, and rivers that you can hop in for your cold water therapy.

These streams won’t be as easy to find as they are in Colorado. The American state is so vast it’s crazy. But you can still find a quiet place for yourself if that’s what you’re looking for.

Location Overview: Nestled in the heart of Italy, Tuscany boasts rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns like Florence and Siena.
Unique Activities: Cycle through the Tuscan countryside, engage in outdoor workouts, and indulge in locally sourced cuisine for a wellness-focused trip.
Notable Landmarks: Florence's Ponte Vecchio and the scenic Val d'Orcia region offer picturesque settings for fitness activities.

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Colorado - USA

After my long stay in Colorado I fell in love with the state. There is so much to do, the people seemed really nice and they seemed fitness conscious - at least more than other states I have visited.

In the summer the weather in Colorado can often reach 30C(88F) so you have the heat for your muscles to relax but due to the Rocky Mountains heights and year-round snow peaks, you can still find cold wild rivers to plunge in even in the summer. The winter will be a real challenge as this state gets extremely cold.

Location Overview: Colorado, with its diverse landscapes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring the Rocky Mountains and high plains.
Unique Activities: Hike or ski in the Rockies, mountain bike in the high-altitude trails, and experience unparalleled fitness adventures.
Notable Landmarks: Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre for workouts or scale the iconic peaks of Pikes Peak or Longs Peak.

image of serene stream rushing down the mountain in the midst of trees. The trees cover most of this image even most of the sky is blocked out — Colorado, USA

The Alps - France, Austria, and Germany

Location Overview: The Alps offer a playground for outdoor enthusiasts with majestic mountain ranges.
Unique Activities: Ski in the French Alps, hike in the Austrian Tyrol, and cycle through Bavarian landscapes for diverse fitness experiences.
Notable Landmarks: Mont Blanc in France, Grossglockner in Austria, and Zugspitze in Germany are iconic peaks for challenging fitness pursuits.

Barcelona - Spain

Spain is another country with lots of rivers and mountains and great summers. Barcelona in particular is a bustling city with lots to do.

With the beach nearby this makes a great location not only to visit but to settle in as well.

Location Overview: Barcelona, on the northeast coast of the Iberian Peninsula, combines vibrant city life with beautiful beaches and mountains.
Unique Activities: Run along Barceloneta Beach, hike in Collserola Park, and join outdoor fitness classes for a dynamic city workout.
Notable Landmarks: Park Güell and Montjuïc offer scenic spots for exercise, while Tibidabo provides panoramic views of the city.

Santorini - Greece

Still in Europe but with different mountains, Greece is a great place to visit as there are plenty of things to do there. The balmy summers near the mountain ranges can provide the best type of wild workouts with the heat and cold plunges to boot.

Location Overview: Santorini, a stunning Greek island in the Aegean Sea, is famous for its white-washed buildings and crystal-clear waters.
Unique Activities: Climb the steps of Oia, engage in seaside yoga, and explore the island's hilly terrain for a refreshing fitness experience.
Notable Landmarks: The iconic blue-domed churches and the caldera cliffs create a unique backdrop for fitness activities.

Cuzco - Peru

I loved my time in Cuzco, it definitely passed the vibe check. Now it passes the fitness check too.

Peru, nestled in the Andes Mountains, is the gateway to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, where hiking, outdoor workouts, and exploration of Inca ruins create a unique health and fitness travel experience.

Location Overview: Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Cusco is a historic city and the gateway to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Unique Activities: Hike the Inca Trail, explore the Sacred Valley, and acclimate to high altitudes with outdoor fitness adventures.
Notable Landmarks: Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuamán, and the surrounding Inca ruins offer iconic backdrops for fitness pursuits in a historical setting.

Related: Peru Travel Guide.

Cuzco, Peru

Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) - Georgia

Trouble in the region has put off many travellers to this country but you don't have to go too far to see how much people love this underrated country.

Experience the charm of fitness travel in Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Georgia, surrounded by the picturesque Caucasus Mountains, where hiking to Gergeti Trinity Church and outdoor activities against stunning mountain landscapes redefine the solo fitness holiday.

Location Overview: Tucked away in the Caucasus Mountains, Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi, is a picturesque town with stunning mountain landscapes.
Unique Activities: Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church, trek in the Kazbegi National Park, and enjoy outdoor activities surrounded by the breathtaking scenery.
Notable Landmarks: Gergeti Trinity Church, perched on a hilltop, provides panoramic views of the mountains, creating a unique setting for fitness enthusiasts in Georgia.

Qabala - Azerbaijan

Here you can find a fitness journey in Qabala, Azerbaijan, surrounded by the lush Caucasus Mountains, where solo fitness holidays offer thrilling hikes, horseback riding, and outdoor activities in the midst of breathtaking scenery.

Location Overview: Qabala, nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, offers lush landscapes, including forests, rivers, and scenic mountains.
Unique Activities: Hike in the Caucasus, go horseback riding in the Qabala Horse Riding Center, and enjoy outdoor activities in the breathtaking surroundings.
Notable Landmarks: The Qabaland Amusement Park and the Tufandag Mountain Resort provide both adventure and relaxation opportunities.

Marrakech - Morocco

Uncover fitness travel in Marrakech, Morocco, near the Atlas Mountains, where the city's cultural richness merges with outdoor activities, providing a unique blend of exploration, yoga in serene gardens, and fitness near iconic landmarks.

Location Overview: Marrakech, located near the Atlas Mountains, is a vibrant city known for its markets, palaces, and gardens.
Unique Activities: Explore the Atlas Mountains, practice yoga in the city's gardens, and experience the cultural richness while staying active.
Notable Landmarks: Jardin Majorelle and the Koutoubia Mosque grounds offer serene settings for outdoor workouts.

Pokhara - Nepal

You don’t have to climb Everest to find great hikes, fresh streams, and lots to do.

Location Overview: Pokhara, situated near the Annapurna mountain range, is a picturesque city with lakes, caves, and stunning mountain views.
Unique Activities: Trek in the Annapurna region, paraglide with mountain views and engage in yoga by the serene lakeside.
Notable Landmarks: Phewa Lake and the Peace Pagoda provide tranquil settings for fitness activities with a backdrop of the Himalayas.

an image of a serene and still lake with autumn colour trees surrounding the lake. Pine trees fill in the rest of the trees for as long as you see until huge snow covered mountains in the background. Pohkhara Nepal — Pokhara, Nepal - raj-shrestha-unsplash

Zhangjiajie - China

Embark on an extraordinary fitness journey in Zhangjiajie, China, where outdoor workouts amidst surreal landscapes, including the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains, offer an unparalleled fit travel experience.

Location Overview: Zhangjiajie, known for its unique sandstone pillars, is a city in the Hunan province of China, that offers breathtaking natural landscapes.
Unique Activities: Hike in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, climb the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains, and experience outdoor workouts amidst surreal scenery.
Notable Landmarks: The glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Bridge and Tianmen Mountain provide thrilling and scenic fitness opportunities.

Good luck with ticking these places off your bucket list ✅.

What to look out for on your outdoor travel workouts

Climate and Temperature:

Check the average temperatures of the destination during your visit. Ensure there are options for both outdoor and air-conditioned indoor workouts to adapt to varying weather conditions.

Hydration:

Stay hydrated, especially in warmer climates. Ensure access to clean water sources and carry a reusable water bottle. Look for destinations with ample hydration options and awareness of the importance of staying hydrated.

Sun Protection:

Protect yourself from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing appropriate clothing, and choosing workout times when the sun is less intense. Seek locations with shaded areas or facilities that promote sun safety.

Heat-Related Illnesses:

Be mindful of heat-related illnesses such as sunburn, sunstroke, and heatstroke. Choose destinations with suitable healthcare facilities and emergency services in case of any health concerns.

Air Quality:

Be aware of the air quality in the chosen destination. Consider places with good air quality and access to outdoor areas with fresh air. Pay attention to local advisories and take necessary precautions if air quality is a concern.

Healthcare Facilities:

Prioritize destinations with well-equipped healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and ensure there is access to medical assistance if needed.

Altitude Considerations:

If the destination involves higher altitudes, acclimatize gradually to prevent altitude sickness. Be aware of symptoms and choose destinations with healthcare facilities familiar with altitude-related health concerns.

Local Guidelines and Safety Measures:

Stay informed about local guidelines and safety measures related to outdoor activities. Follow recommended practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable fitness experience in the chosen destination.

By paying attention to these factors, you can enjoy your workouts while prioritizing safety and well-being in various travel destinations.

Wild Workout

Here is a comprehensive ‘guide’ on how to do your actual workout in the wild if there is no gym around or just because you feel like it.

Bear Grylls' FULL-BODY Wilderness Workout you can do ANYWHERE | Bear Uncut | S1 EP2

Final Thoughts on Wild Workouts

All in all these places are great to visit for anyone, whether you are a fitness freak or not. I can argue that the nature of these places are specially tailored towards those who enjoy wild workouts. But that's just me. Any excuse to workout or explore.

If you are looking for an extended stay somewhere and you are inclined to test out your fitness and training in the wild then this post is perfect for you.

Stay mindful of climate conditions, ensuring hydration in warmer locales and protection against the sun's intensity. Be aware of potential heat-related illnesses and consider destinations with good air quality for outdoor activities. Additionally, when venturing into higher altitudes, prioritize gradual acclimatization to prevent altitude-related health issues.

In essence, the ideal fitness travel destination seamlessly integrates health and fitness travel, offering a harmonious balance between wellness and adventure.

Let fitness become a gateway to discovering the beauty and vitality each destination has to offer. Happy travels!

Additional research and learning materials:

The Surprising Benefits of Training in the Heat - Outsideonline.com.

YouTube video Dr Andrew Huberman - How Long to Sauna & Cold Plunge for Key Benefits | Dr. Susanna Søberg & Dr. Andrew Huberman

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The Gymsy Traveller

Wild Workouts: Exploring 15 Stunning Travel Destinations for Outdoor Workouts