6 Moves for Exercise while Traveling

If you’ve been keeping up with my blog, you know I’ve been traveling a lot this year — everywhere from the Philippines to Boise, Idaho, and from Tokyo to Atlanta (where we got to visit with former President Jimmy Carter. Today, I'm on my way to San Diego.

I have been fortunate for these experiences and for the relationships I have established through these meetings and conferences.

The downside of traveling can vary for many — but for me it's hard to eat healthy and get enough exercise when I'm constantly traveling. I came across an article in Hemisphere magazine with simple, but effective suggestions on how to squeeze in the exercise.

Here are some quick, easy ways to get your heart rate up:

1. Pushups
Most people know how to do a pushup, so here are some tips to maximize your results: To further target your triceps and chest, place your hands closer together. For less effort, place your knees on the floor, with ankles crossed, and lower from there.

2. Squat Jumps
With hands on hips, in a squat position, jump straight up as high as you can. Upon landing, lower back into a squat position and, in one smooth motion, jump up again.

3. Dips:
Targets the triceps. Sit on a chair with your hands on the seat and extend you legs in front of you. Straighten your arms to raise yourself and then lower yourself back down.

4. Bicep Curls
Standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, hold a small piece of luggage in front of you with palms facing up. Keep your elbows stationary and repeatedly curl the suitcase up toward your chest.

5. Arm Raises
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a small suitcase with your arm straight down at your side and the palm of your hand facing behind you. Raise the luggage up in front of you, keeping your arm as straight as possible. Lower and repeat.

6. Crunches
Lie on your back on the floor, with bent knees and crossed ankles. Place you feet under the bed or dresser. Place your hands across you chest or behind your head and while contracting your abs, lift your shoulder blades and upper back off the ground.