Summer is in full swing and the New England coast has so many pristene vacation spots.  And while vacation should include lots of BBQ and cocktails, one key to a lifelong fitness strategy is making time for exercise.  The last week of July is my annual trip to Martha's Vineyard with my in-laws and here are the ways I'm staying fit and focused for my family on vacation.

1)  Morning Walks/Runs

My weekday wake up time tends to carry over into the weekends and vacations.  Sleeping in can feel great every now and then, but studies have shown that playing catch-up on the weekend can be detrimental to your overall health (and your lifelong fitness strategy).  Vineyard sunrises are memorable, so I'll be up and early on at least two days, and to avoid boredom while running I'll pay extra attention to the spectacular views.  

2)  Enjoy the Water

Trip Advisor ranks Martha's Vineyard's South Beach the #1 attraction in Edgartown.  The surf during high tide can make entering the water somewhat difficult, but also a fun challenge.  And once in, treading water for even just five minutes will burn 72 calories.  4-5 trips into the water over the course of a full beach day equates to a solid workout. 

3)  Biking

My wife and I will pick a day and use our bikes to cover as much of the island as we can.  Our favorite trip is Edgartown to Aquinnah to check out the views from the cliffs (approx. 40 miles round trip, 4 total hours of riding time).  We'll pack some health snacks and water bottles for the trip and absolutely stop at Faith's Seafood Shack and Sushi Bar.  

Looking for more suggestions for how to keep your family fit and focused during vacation?  Send me an email and I'll send my top ten list!