Originally published on The Signal

Travel can be a powerful way to reset your perspective, but for many, it disrupts routines, especially when it comes to working out and staying fit. According to San Diego-based trainer Peter Embiricos, staying active on the go doesn’t require a gym, a strict schedule, or even much equipment. What it does require is a shift in mindset and a few flexible strategies.

Why Fitness Doesn’t Need to Pause When You Travel

When people leave home, they often assume their fitness progress must pause, but Embiricos sees this differently. “Fitness isn’t about perfect conditions. You have to get creative and work with what you’ve got,” he explains. “The goal is to stay connected to your body and your habits, no matter where you are.”

This shift in perspective makes a significant difference. Rather than viewing travel as a break from movement, Embiricos encourages clients to see it as an opportunity to explore new forms of activity. Sometimes that means beach runs, hotel stair climbs, or bodyweight workouts in a park.

Movement That Matches Your Environment

One of the most effective ways to stay active while traveling is to adapt your routine to your environment. “If you’re in a city, walk as much as possible. If you’re by water, swim. If there’s a hill, climb it,” says Embiricos. “You don’t have to replicate your gym routine to stay fit; you just have to move.”

He notes that even short bursts of intentional activity, like 10 to 20 minutes a day, can help maintain strength, mobility, and momentum. “Many people think travel workouts have to be intense to be worthwhile. In reality, consistency matters more than intensity,” he adds.

Simple Routines, Strong Results

Embiricos often provides clients with minimalist travel workouts: bodyweight circuits, mobility flows, or short resistance-band sessions that can be done anywhere. However, he emphasizes that travel fitness isn’t just about workouts; it’s also about maintaining habits that support your well-being.

“Hydration, sleep, movement. If you keep those steady, you’ll feel good and bounce back faster when you return,” he explains.

Staying Grounded in New Places

Maintaining fitness while traveling is a physical and mental practice. Embiricos encourages clients to use movement as a grounding ritual, especially in unfamiliar environments. “Moving your body first thing in the morning or after a long travel day helps you reset,” he says. “It’s a way to reconnect with yourself and set the tone for your day, no matter where you are.”

He points out that this consistency creates a sense of normalcy during unpredictable trips and can even enhance the travel experience.

Fitness That Travels With You

For Peter Embiricos, the key to staying fit while traveling is flexibility, not perfection. Whether it’s a five-minute stretch or a 30-minute workout, the habit of showing up matters more than the structure. “Fitness is something you carry with you,” he says. “It adapts to your schedule, your surroundings, and your life stage. You just have to give it the space it needs.”