7 ways to keep fit on your next cruise

Are you getting ready for a cruise and want to make sure you stay in shape? Remember that even though you're on vacation, exercise is still important!

Indulging in the many food and beverage selections on board will often leave you feeling like you need to be carried off the ship in a wheelbarrow. Avoid putting on the pounds during your sailing by incorporating exercise into your daily routines. Exercise comes in many forms, so pick something you like or try something new.

Here are seven suggestions for burning extra calories and avoiding weight gain during your cruise vacation.

1. Walk or jog a few laps around the track

Most midsize and large cruise ships set aside a track and indicate how many laps you need to run or walk to reach a mile. So set a goal for yourself and go at your own pace. Enjoy the fresh air and clear water views  as you walk or jog on the ship’s track — and remember to stay hydrated!

2. Take the stairs instead of the elevator

If you only need to go up a couple of decks to the pool, why not take the stairs? If you're walking down to the theater, casino or main dining room, why not take the stairs? Small amounts of activity that are accumulated over the day add up to real health benefits. Bonus: You'll probably get to your destination quicker than waiting for the elevator.

3. Take advantage of the cruise ship’s gym facilities

Most cruise ships have fully equipped fitness centers with a variety of cardiovascular equipment including treadmills, ellipticals and stationary bikes. These facilities also include plenty of free weights and weight machines to meet your needs. The gym can become crowded at peak times, so plan your schedule accordingly to get your workout in during quieter times of the day.

4. Participate in fitness & wellness classes

Most ships offer various exercise and wellness classes for all different fitness levels and styles, including Pilates and yoga. Some classes are free for everyone to participate while others charge a fee. Be sure to check your ship’s daily schedule for details on all activities and classes offered to find one that’s right for you.

5. Roll your own workout on board

Rock climbing walls, ice skating and roller skating rinks, sports courts, sports pools, ropes courses, surf simulators and more!  Who said exercising couldn’t be fun? Try out all the amenities your ship has to offer so you will feel better about ordering that yummy dessert at dinner.

6. Bust a move

If you feel like your days are booked with other activities both on and off the ship, why not get your exercise in later in the day by dancing the night away at the ship’s many entertainment venues? There is plenty of music and dancing to be had by all that is sure to burn some extra calories.

7. Be adventurous

If you’d rather get your activity in off the ship, try a more strenuous shore excursion like kayaking, biking, hiking, walking tours or other unique experiences in your port of call. Try something you like or try something new, but either way be sure to break a sweat!

Remember ...

Keep in mind that these are just general exercise recommendations. If you have any health conditions, you should contact your doctor or physical therapist to determine what exercises are right for you.

Before and after any exercise routine, it's a good idea to stretch to keep your muscles flexible and to be ready to participate in all the activities your ship and ports of call have to offer!

How about you? What tricks do you use to keep the pounds off during a cruise?

In our series Wellness & Fitness

• Cruise tips for slimmer sailings
• 10 cruise lines for fitness buffs
• Cruise ship spas: What to expect & what they cost
• Top spas at luxury cruise lines
• Lotus Spa: Try a massage with bamboo, hot stones — or chocolate
• 12 reasons a cruise is a healthy vacation choice
• Seabourn amps up its wellness & fitness offerings
• Getting sick on a cruise ship