Last Updated on 03/02/2025
If you’re driving or even riding in a car for hours on end, your body desperately craves some exercise—even if you don’t realize it. Staying active and maintaining your fitness routine while on vacation used to be a challenge. However, today it is relatively simple.
Most hotels and resorts offer top-notch fitness equipment, sometimes even better than what your local gym has! But make no mistake, even if you’re staying at an Airbnb or in a tent, there are quick and easy exercises you can do to keep your body in top shape during your long road trip. Don’t use the lack of a gym as an excuse!
Of course, when you’re busy exploring a new place or just relaxing, exercise might be the furthest thing from your mind. But what you really need to do is make time for it. After being stuck in a car all day, the thought of exercise might not seem so bad. Long road trips can be quite strenuous on your body. From cramped legs to tired back muscles, sitting in a car for hours can take its toll.
Here are four activities that don’t require access to a gym or a personal trainer, and can help get your body back on track after a long road trip. For a full workout, repeat each exercise in a circuit three times.

Stretch It All Out
Stand tall with your feet firmly planted on the ground and take a deep breath. Stretch your arms up high, reaching for the sky as you inhale. As you exhale, slowly release your hands back to your sides. Repeat this 3–5 times, making each breath deeper and more invigorating than the last.
Quad Stretch
Stand up straight and shift your weight to one leg. Then bend your other leg, bringing your toes towards your glutes. For a deeper stretch, hold onto your foot. Hold this position for 3 to 5 breaths, then switch to the other side.
Squats
Squats are great for activating your gluteal muscles. After sitting in a car all day, your glutes may feel a little numb, so this is an excellent way to wake them up. To perform a squat, plant your feet firmly on the ground, then lower your body as if sitting in an imaginary chair (without actually sitting down). Stand back up and repeat.
Forward Fold
A forward fold involves reaching toward the ground and touching your toes. This stretch can help relieve tension in your legs after they’ve been cramped in the car. If you can’t touch your toes with straight legs, don’t worry—it’s perfectly fine to bend your knees slightly.
Simple Meditation
Meditation is another great way to refocus after a car ride. Stand tall with your hands by your sides or in a prayer position at your heart. Close your eyes and focus on your breath. Spend as much time here as your road trip schedule allows.
By following these simple exercises, you’ll be able to stay active during your road trip. That way, when you return home and meet with your personal trainer, you won’t be behind on your fitness routine!
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