The Benefits of Choosing an Active Holiday

Planning your next holiday?

Whether you’re going solo or you’ve been saving up for a family retreat, an active holiday could be more rewarding than you’d expect. From cycling through peaceful vineyards, kayaking down rivers or getting fiercely competitive on the tennis courts, there are so many reasons to ditch the sun loungers.

Personally, I really struggle to sit still, even on holiday, being active brings me a lot of joy and is has positive impacts physically and mentally as well as the social benefits of keeping active on holiday as it opens up opportunities to meet like-minded people.


Physical health benefits

When you’re taking a break, it’s important to spend time relaxing and stepping away from things that cause you stress in your daily life, however, this doesn’t have to mean lounging by the pool all day, as nice as that is the novelty can wear off and you can also strike a good balance by both chilling out and getting active.

Swimming, hiking, and cycling are usually easy to access and they can all improve cardiovascular health, get your blood pumping in a low-impact way and help build strength and enhance overall fitness, plus they are activities that are suitable for all ages. They also give opportunities to explore your surroundings differently and can be a great way to discover beautiful routes with spectacular views.

Just as important as total rest days, active recovery is essential for any training plan. If you’re already working towards some fitness goals, taking time to move your body with gentle, low-impact activities could be a wonderful way to maintain fitness while you’re away from home with minimal stress.

 

Mental health and wellness

Many of us book a holiday in the hope that simply escaping the routine will be enough of a mental health break. According to the Family Holiday Charity, people who don’t take holidays or even just take time out for themselves, are more likely to experience high stress levels.

When taking a break from everyday life is paired with physical activities, the benefits are even more profound. Enjoying sports can boost our mood, improve confidence, and strengthen the immune system.

Plus, being active on holiday usually means spending more time outdoors - and the holistic benefits are well reported. For example, cycling holidays make a brilliant way to stay active all while exploring new environments. Being immersed in nature boosts our mood and helps us feel more relaxed.


Social and cultural engagement

Finally, participating in outdoor activities and sports on holiday means you’ll be much more likely to meet new people! Whether you get involved in friendly football matches or long-distance cycling tours, you’ll usually join up with like-minded people.

Even if you’re going solo or exploring new hiking routes as a couple, meeting new people along the way is a fantastic part of the experience. From chatting to the hosts at family-run restaurants to meeting local business owners, adventures are always more memorable with new faces.

When it comes to forming a deeper connection with local communities and different cultures, getting active could be the motivation you need. Guided tours, local sports fixtures, and cultural excursions all provide ample opportunities.

Overview

When you’re on holiday, it might be tempting to spend all day on the beach. However, getting involved in sports and activities could help you to get more out of your break - and feel better once you return home, too.

An active holiday will leave you feeling mentally refreshed, boost your confidence, and make lasting memories.