Last week, I kicked off my Movement That Fits Your Life series by talking about how staying active doesn't have to mean sticking to your normal workout routine—especially while traveling. Sometimes the best choice is to work out. Other times it's perfectly okay to take a break.
But what about those days that fall somewhere in the middle?
Maybe you have a little downtime before heading out for the day. Maybe you're staying with family and don't want to disappear for an hour. Or maybe you simply want to move your body without turning it into a big production.
That's when this workout comes in.
Even when I decide to work out while traveling, I don't always want a long workout. Sometimes 10 minutes is exactly what I need to feel energized and maintain my routine.
This is one of my favorite travel workouts because it requires almost no space, no equipment, and just one large towel to use as a mat.
The Workout
Complete each exercise for 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds to rest and transition to the next movement.
- Walkouts
- Split Squat Hold (Left)
- Split Squat Hold (Right)
- Breakdancers
- Flutter Kicks
Complete 2 rounds for a 10-minute workout.
If you're feeling good and have a little extra time, go ahead and add a third round.
Don't let the simplicity fool you—this workout is much more challenging than it looks.
Exercise Tips
Walkouts
I don't rush these.
In fact, I usually only complete three or four repetitions during the entire 45 seconds because I focus on moving slowly and with control. This helps challenge your core, shoulders, and upper body while also giving your hamstrings and back a nice stretch.
Split Squat Hold (Left & Right)
This is the exercise everyone underestimates.
When your back knee is hovering just above the floor, your legs and glutes start to burn quickly.
If you're breezing through the hold, check your position first. Is your back knee really just off the ground?
Need an even bigger challenge? Lift your back heel off the floor or hold onto something heavy, like a suitcase or backpack, while maintaining the hold.
Breakdancer
I love adding breakdancer because they get me moving in a different direction than most bodyweight exercises.
They also challenge your coordination and core while keeping the workout interesting.
If this movement doesn't feel comfortable yet, side-to-side bear crawls are a great substitute—as long as you have enough room.
Flutter Kicks
This is one of my favorite ways to finish the circuit.
Even though you're lying on the floor, your heart rate stays elevated, and it's a great exercise for strengthening the lower portion of your core. Since that's an area I've been focusing on lately, flutter kicks have become a regular part of my workouts.
Remember...
One of the biggest lessons I've learned over the years is that every workout doesn't have to leave you completely exhausted.
Sometimes 10 intentional minutes are exactly what your body—and your schedule—need.
If this workout helps you stay consistent while you're away from home, then it's done its job.
Next week I'll be sharing another simple workout you can do while traveling (when you don’t have traditional fitness equipment) so be sure to check back!
