Fitness is a lot of trial and error. You experiment with things, you test out the waters and you find what works and what doesn't. Some are closed off or haven't learned valuable assets of training especially if they travel. Back in the day, gyms weren't as easy as to come by and many travelers had to figure out things to keep themselves going. Some had a few things with them that they can carry, like Bob Backlund for example would take his Wheel & Foldable Step Stool and train in hotels and in the arenas.
Those things are very good to have and if you love conditioning, bodyweight is right at the top of the list. To keep up with the riggers of travel, you can get a workout in anywhere if you have the right mindset and knowledge of what you can do. I love circuit style bodyweight exercises and have done them in airports, hotels, theme parks, on the beach and wherever it helps. However; if I had to pick a method that can be done anywhere with little to no equipment, it's Isometrics hands down.
People forget how valuable Isometrics really is especially for travelers. You can do all kinds of holds that will not only keep you strong, but also keep you energized for those long flights, crazy drives and being able to haul your bags with little effort. If I had to pick the best equipment for Isometrics, it's the WorldFit Iso Trainer. You can pack it into a little bag and throw it in your suitcase or duffle bag and you can have a workout anywhere you want and not have to move a muscle, just contract, relax, repeat and you're good to go.
Strength Training on the road can be a challenge but with this bad boy, you can mimic just about any exercise in the gym isometrically and get something going for as little as 10 minutes. My favorites to work are the Bicep Curl, Overhead Press, Lunge, Zercher Squat, Deadlift, Seated Row & Chest Press. These alone can be done in a matter of minutes and I'd be spanked. You can do them their respective positions for 7-12 seconds or you can do them in one position per exercise and go for longer periods of time. Overcoming Isometrics truly is the Game Genie of Fitness.
One of the perks of Isometric Training is that it doesn't tear you down or make you feel as sluggish, you can use a lot of effort and not feel dead afterwards. Whenever I do them say in an airport waiting for a flight, they provide the focus and concentration, along with Spatial Awareness & Vitality. With controlling the breathing, it also helps relieve anxiety of being on a plane and being overwhelmed. It gives off that calming effect afterwards. In a hotel room, they're great for preparing for the day's activities or winding down after a day of fun and adventure. They're there when you need them and be able to carry on your day.
For a preference of which book or course to help you with this kind of training is Overcoming Isometrics With Matt Schifferle who provides not only the exercises but what you can do with a regular routine on the road to keep you sharp no matter where you are. It is by far a top 5 in the entire realm of the method. I personally believe very few can match it when it comes to the wisdom, the science, the small details and the professionalism that comes with it.
Safe travels everyone, kick ass in your endeavors and keep being amazingly awesome.
