How to Lose Weight on a Cruise

For many travelers, a cruise vacation is the ultimate indulgence in gourmet eating, relaxation and not worrying about what you weigh. Stepping back on the scale after a cruise can be a shock, however, but knowing how to lose weight on a cruise can keep you from packing on the pounds while you sail the seven seas.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Deck plans of the cruise ship
• Daily cruise newsletters
• Cruise menus
• Sneakers or other athletic shoes
• Exercise clothes

1. Plan to stay healthy during your cruise by eating healthy and exercising before you set sail. If you follow healthy diet and exercise habits for several weeks before your vacation you will more likely to keep those habits while on board.

2. Study the cruise ship deck plans before your vacation and as soon as you get on board to learn the various routes around the ship. Be prepared to walk long distances from one amenity to another and choose routes that will add steps to your daily routine.

3. Use the daily cruise newsletters left in your cabin by your steward to learn when different fitness activities and wellness seminars will be held. Take advantage of free consultations, lectures and organized activities to keep moving and keep the pounds off.

4. Visit the dining room early each day to study the posted menus. Plan which foods you will want to try and include a soup or salad as an appetizer to ensure you feel full without indulging in multiple entrees. Also take note of designated lighter selections such as fresh fruit or baked fish that will be lighter in calories but just as delicious as other options.

5. Avoid the temptation to eat at every given opportunity. Cruise ships may offer meals, snacks and buffets for up to 18 hours each day, but exercising willpower as well as muscles will help you cut calories. If you do indulge, choose smaller portions and sample treats rather than consume whole servings.

6. Wear sneakers while on board the ship and don’t be afraid of using the stairs. The stairs will often be faster and more convenient than waiting for the elevator, and good walking shoes can also make shore excursions more comfortable.

7. Pack exercise clothes and take advantage of the ship’s fitness facilities to help you lose weight on a cruise. Most vessels offer a free gym with cardio and weightlifting equipment as well as a walking track, aerobics classes and other fitness activities. On some ships you can try new activities such as rock climbing or surfing to help get your heart rate up while still enjoying your cruise vacation.

8. Limit alcohol consumption to avoid drinking several hundred calories each day. Cruise ships offer free water and juice, and cutting out the alcohol will save money as well as calories.

9. Get right back into a healthy diet and exercise program after returning home. By practicing healthy behaviors on vacation you can avoid cruise ship weight gain and even lose a few pounds, but those behaviors must be continued to keep the weight off.

Tips & Warnings

• The best way to lose weight on a cruise is to be involved in different activities. By keeping active with trivia contests, ship tours, lounge shows and comedy routines, you will stay further away from the temptation of the midnight buffet and you will burn more calories getting from one activity to the next.
• Don’t be discouraged if you do gain a little weight on a cruise. Weight fluctuates regularly, but with healthy habits you can drop any extra pounds quickly.
• Consult with a physician or fitness trainer before beginning any exercise program, including one on a cruise ship. Most ships have personal trainers on board who can offer personalized recommendations for appropriate exercise routines.