It can be hard for locum tenens providers, who spend a lot of time on the road, to maintain healthy habits. Finding healthy food options and a suitable place to exercise are often challenges, but you can overcome them with a little planning and discipline. Here are a few tips locum tenens providers can use to stay healthy while on the road.
Make Good Food Choices
There are many convenient food options available while on the road, but most of them are not healthy. For example, the continental breakfast is often seen as a nice value add, but some of its offerings, such as sugary pastries and high-carb bagels, can be detrimental to your health and fitness goals. Make a trip to the local grocery store and stock up on healthy snacks and breakfast foods. You can store them in the hotel mini fridge and even use the coffee maker to heat water for instant oatmeal.
Get Your Exercise
Pack your sneakers and gym shorts, and set aside some time each day to get your heart rate up. Most hotels have a fitness center with a cardio equipment, a few fitness machines, and some free weights. Call ahead to find out what equipment they have to see if it fits your needs. If not, you can get a great workout in your room using only your body weight. Also, take the stairs whenever possible. It’s an easy way to get your heart pumping, and sometimes it can be faster than waiting for the elevator.
Drink Lots of Water
Flying dehydrates your body, which can contribute to symptoms of jet lag, so be sure to drink plenty of water while traveling to your next locum tenens assignment. And once you’ve arrived, continue to stay hydrated. Doing so will help curb junk food cravings and keep your muscles energized. Pack a refillable water bottle with you and take advantage of the water fountains at the hotel and the facility where you are working.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Your body needs a good night’s rest to function properly and ensure you have the energy to get through your day. With that said, it can be hard when you are in a new environment. To combat that, try bringing a piece of home, such as pillow or blanket, to help you relax. Going to bed and waking up at the same times you would at home is also a good way to make things feel more familiar.
