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The Ultimate Travel Workout

Gotta burn to earn. Quick workouts that you can do while travelling.

By: Josiah Purss + Save to a List

When we travel, usually the last thing that crosses our mind is working out. Why would we want to do that when we can get back out and go to the beach? Well luckily, working out doesn't have to take a long time. In fact, there is a secret recipe to burning calories that I will let you in on!

What if I told you that in 15-20 minutes you could burn as many calories as a one hour run? Sounds intriguing right? Well here it is - HIIT - high intensity interval training. Conceptually it is very simple: alternate high intensity activity with rest periods. Below I will give you a couple of workout examples to get you going!

Workout 1 - The four square foot workout (Not all workouts need a lot of space)

40 seconds working out, 20 seconds rest, 3 times through. You can change this up as needed, but keep the intensity of the working out as high as possible!

Lunge jumps - Mountain climbers - Push ups - Squat Jumps - Crunches 

15 minutes total

Workout 2 - The classic interval

For this workout all you need is some open space. A park, a beach or even a quiet road (or a hill if you are hardcore and want bonus points). Measure out about 20 meters, this is going to be your sprint.

5 x sprint on 75 seconds. (Eg - 5 second sprint 70 seconds rest) after 5, rest for 1 extra minute.

5 x sprint on 85 seconds - extra 90 seconds rest at end of set

5 x sprint on 95 seconds 

22 minutes total

Now that you have the basic concept of HIIT, use the routines I suggested or go and design some workouts for yourself. You're welcome to get in contact with me if you would like more ideas. Just remember to keep your intensity high for maximum effect. You don't need to be working out for a long period of time to achieve a high level of burn!

P.S a scientifically proven benefit of HIIT is improved metabolism after the workout finishes! 


We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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