Worldschooling offers a unique blend of education, adventure, and cultural immersion and also opens up incredible opportunities to prioritize health and fitness in ways that are often more challenging within the constraints of traditional living. As we travel, we find that staying fit is not only achievable but also a natural extension of our worldschooling lifestyle. By engaging in various physical activities, from conventional gym workouts to trying out local sports and martial arts, our family has discovered that fitness is an integral part of daily life.
One of the great things about traveling the world is that many destinations offer well-equipped gyms. It is relatively easy to find a place to get in a solid workout. Our accommodations often have a gym on-site. Gym routines provide consistency, offering strength training and cardio sessions that help maintain a balanced fitness regimen. We have found that mixing weightlifting with cardio sessions keeps our energy levels high, especially when moving from one place to another.
I also do a lot of yoga to counterbalance the more intense workouts. It’s not only about stretching and flexibility but also about mental clarity and stress relief, which are invaluable to me during our travels. Lucas and Henry have been practicing Qigong in their hub, which is great for their mind, body, and spirit.
Outdoor activities are a major part of our fitness routine. Hiking is a favorite for Michael and me because it combines physical exertion with exploring stunning trails, mountains, and forests. Lucas and Henry do not always appreciate hiking, but they come along. Whether trekking through the lush jungles of Laos or the ruins of Machu Picchu, hiking offers a full-body workout while feeding our adventurous spirit.
Swimming is an essential part of our fitness regime, especially when we find ourselves in coastal regions or at an accommodation with a pool, or at a waterpark. Henry can play in the pool for hours with his friends.
Walking is the simplest yet most effective way to stay active. Exploring new cities on foot not only keeps us moving but also allows us to discover hidden gems that we might otherwise miss. Walking is usually our go-to method of transportation and exercise.
One of the joys of worldschooling is the chance to try sports and activities that we might not have access to at home.
In our travels, we have had the chance to try out more niche activities like fencing and Muay Thai. Fencing, with its quick movements and strategic thinking, provides a great mix of mental and physical exercise for Lucas and Henry. Muay Thai, which we tried in Thailand, is a challenging full-body workout. The discipline and technique required offer a new perspective on fitness, and it’s a cultural experience in its own right. Scuba diving, while more of a leisure activity, is another way we stay fit. The physical demands of diving, from carrying equipment to navigating underwater currents, keep us active while exploring the marine world.
Pickleball has been a staple in our fitness routine for many years, and we prioritize finding places to play wherever we travel. This fast-paced game offers a fun way to stay active while also serving as a social activity, allowing us to connect with locals and fellow travelers. Whether playing in a local park or finding a dedicated pickleball court, this sport remains a constant in our ever-changing worldschooling lifestyle.
A significant advantage of worldschooling is access to healthier food options, particularly outside the United States. Many countries emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet. We’ve enjoyed the abundance of fruits, and vegetables and find that our diet naturally becomes healthier as we adapt to different food cultures.
We love that we are constantly on the move, whether walking to explore a new city, hiking in the mountains, or simply playing sports with locals. This constant activity keeps us fit and energized, making staying in shape a natural part of our lives rather than a chore.
