My main advice: above all, get in shape.
You can certainly have loads of fun without being in the best physical shape. But wherever you go, you must be able to overcome the physical difficulties you will face:
Lift your luggage. Most airlines set a 23 kg checked bag weight, and most travellers exceed this limit. Be honest: when was the last time you lifted 23 pounds? My wife and I bought some nice rolling suitcases. I don’t have to carry them around for long, but I still have to drop them (too often!) on the bed, navigate curbs and potholes, and lift them off airport baggage carousels.
To go up the stairs. Guides who accompany tourists tell me that too many travellers, hearing about the great sites they will visit, ask two questions: how many steps are there, and how far should we walk?
During our trip to China, one of my best adventures before my sell-by date, one of the tourists I was travelling with asked these questions so often that I started to cringe. The earth is not flat, and having bad knees or hips won’t change its shape. If your “joints” are delicate, but you’ve taken on an apple or pear shape over the years, you may not need to worry about the form of the earth.
You were standing too long. When travelling, you will often be on your feet for more hours than you are used to.
We have to hurry. Sometimes you’ll have to cross a busy street quickly, whether it’s to catch a bus or get to the restroom before a horde of tourists.
Train to travel
Even without being a gym member, there are plenty of ways you can get in shape and be ready for what’s next. (Always check with your doctor before starting any new physical activity.)
Be prepared to walk for a long time. Train yourself, if necessary, to walk for up to 60 minutes, three to five times a week. Walk as fast as you can without getting out of breath.
Be prepared to run safely for at least one minute. Wearing comfortable shoes, try to run a little or walk very quickly. (If your doctor thinks it’s not a good idea, forget it.)
Train to lift 23 kilos. Put shoes, clothes, and even canned goods in a suitcase so that its weight can be high enough while still being manoeuvrable. Lift her on the bed and put her back on the floor 10 times. Repeat the same exercise later in the day. After a week of daily practice, add weight until you reach 23 pounds.
You were attempting to lift carry-on baggage above your head. Lift a small bag full of shoes from the top shelf of your closet: repeat 10 times, twice a day. Add a little weight each week.
Practice climbing stairs. When you can, take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.
And of course, before you go, don’t forget to get travel insurance that will protect you against surprise medical bills and provide assistance when you’re away from home and don’t speak the local language.
