Embarking on a journey, whether it’s lounging by the beach or exploring new landscapes, can be an invigorating experience. However, it’s essential to consider your physical readiness for such adventures. In the first part of “Are You Fit to Travel,†we delve into the importance of traveling when your body is up for the challenge.

Whose counting right?

Have you ever found yourself on vacation, only for your fitness tracker to buzz with the notification that you’ve already clocked 25,000 steps? While that might be your weekly average, a single day of such activity can catch you off guard. How many travelers set out with the intention of conquering 25,000 steps in a day? Perhaps those bound for destinations like Machu Picchu. While the average traveler expects some level of exploration, they may not fully anticipate the extent of walking, activities, and yes, even stairs, that await them. I’ve been fortunate to scale impressive heights and embark on spontaneous adventures, sometimes without adequate training—a topic we’ll explore further in this blog.

As the French rock climber Alain Robert, known as the French Spiderman, aptly put it, “The best view comes after the hardest climb.†This sentiment resonated deeply during my recent trip to the breathtaking Lopez Medes beach on Ilha Grande, Brazil. But let’s rewind a bit to how this journey unfolded.

After more than a year without international travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was eager to break free from the confines of my home office and explore new horizons. Despite my limited knowledge of Spanish and Portuguese, I eagerly signed up for a classic adventure with G Adventures to witness the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls alongside 21 fellow travelers. In what I considered relatively good shape, thanks to my regular cardio routines as recommended by the American Heart Association, I felt prepared for the journey ahead—until…

FOMO or No FOMO…

One morning, our tour guide presented us with a choice: explore the village and nearby attractions or venture to a secluded beach. FOMO (fear of missing out) nudged me towards the latter option. Little did I know, this decision would test my physical limits. Ignoring subtle warnings about the rugged terrain and the necessity of appropriate footwear, I pressed on with a handful of fellow adventurers.

As we trekked through the rainforest, navigating precarious makeshift steps, it became evident that this excursion would be more arduous than anticipated. Despite protests from my weary muscles and the wise counsel of our guide, Flor, I pushed forward, determined to reach our destination. However, what I thought would be a leisurely stroll turned into a grueling three-hour journey, with each step a humbling reminder of my limitations.

 

 

Then the reward

Finally arriving at what I thought was our destination, only to discover it was merely a halfway point, tested my resolve. Exhausted and sticky from the humidity, I contemplated turning back. But with the realization that retracing my steps would be just as time-consuming, I persevered. And when I finally set foot on Lopez Medes beach, fatigue gave way to awe as I beheld its pristine beauty—a reward well worth the physical exertion.

In hindsight, this experience taught me a valuable lesson: physical fitness is essential for truly savoring the wonders of travel. So, before you embark on your next adventure, ask yourself: are you fit to travel?