Nurses know better than anyone about the importance of physical fitness, but how do you make working out work when you’re on a travel assignment? The good news is, the more things “go global” so to speak, the easier staying fit on a travel assignment becomes. Smart phones and other devices make any kind of workout portable, and many apps let you connect with friends, relatives or other fitness enthusiasts to help boost your motivation levels. Here are four ways for travel nurses to stay active and fit while on assignment.
<h3><strong>Workout/Fitness Apps</strong></h3>
There are literally thousands of workout apps currently available that can be customized to suit any individual style and type of exercise you want to do or try. Whether you are a beginner or a workout pro, you’re sure to find one you can customize to your specific needs and preferences. Only have a few minutes a day to dedicate to your workout routine? Download the <a href="https://www.wahoofitness.com/fitness-apps/7-minute-workout">7 Minute Workout app</a> from Wahoo Fitness. This app offers a range of simple daily workouts that are only – you guessed it – seven minutes long. There are thousands of other apps that focus on specific types of exercise like walking, running, biking or yoga, and many of them can be synced to your smart watch or other device. The important thing is to find one that you actually enjoy and will do on a regular basis so that you see and feel results.
<h3><strong>Explore Your Local City, State and National Parks</strong></h3>
There’s something about connecting fitness and nature that makes it seem almost easier. When you’re on a travel nurse assignment in a new city, consider looking up public parks that may be nearby. Aside from allowing you to connect with nature and sometimes even wildlife, parks offer open spaces that are perfect for exercise. Jogging, walking and biking are probably the easiest, but why not get creative as long as you have the space? Bring your yoga mat and do a few sun salutations. Or use stairs, large rocks and ledges to do a variety of step exercises. Many parks offer other forms of recreational activities, including tennis, volleyball, canoeing, kayaking or swimming. Plus, you’ll probably look and feel better by simply exposing yourself to sunshine and fresh air.

Looking for inspiration to choose your next travel assignment destination? Check out our City Guides for Travel Nurses.
<h3><strong>Get a Temporary Gym Membership</strong></h3>
Gym memberships are typically offered on an annual basis, but many gyms will allow you to purchase a temporary membership if you will only be in town for a limited amount of time, such as during a travel assignment. Before you join a gym, though, even temporarily, ask if the facility offers a trial membership or free day or weekend pass. This is a great way to test a gym or fitness center before you commit further. If you are a member of a chain gym like LA Fitness, Gold’s Gym or the YMCA, your membership may be valid in your temporary location. Just call up the nearest location and ask!
<h3><strong>Get Creative!</strong></h3>
A new travel nurse location is a chance to work in a different clinical setting, meet new people, experience a change of climate, and yes – try a brand-new exercise routine! Why not get creative and let your surroundings be your guide! Is your assignment near the ocean? Why not try learning to surf! Is it near a beach that sees few waves? Give stand up paddle boarding or kayaking a try! Are you near the mountains? Go for a hike or try either cross country or downhill skiing. No matter where your assignment is, there’s sure to be an outdoor activity that is popular there in every season. Find out what it is and who knows, you may just develop a new lifelong passion that will keep you healthy on the road.

Are you actively thinking about where to go on your next travel assignment? Why not take the next step to find inspiration on <a href="https://www.crosscountrynurses.com/travel-nurse-city-guide">top destinations for travel nurses</a> and <a href="https://www.crosscountrynurses.com/start-today">apply for a current travel nurse opportunities</a>.

Four Ways to Stay Fit and Active on Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment