Life on the open sea, a way of living that so many enjoy. The freedom to travel the globe, explore new places and indulge in an endless array of new experiences. For a lucky few of us, yachting is a way to make that a reality.
As with any dream, there will, unfortunately, be drawbacks. One of the main ones when it comes to life on a yacht is fitness. No matter how relaxing cruising the oceans may be, endless hours sat on board with a limited amount of space for physical activity are destined to hurt our health and impair our fitness. This doesn’t have to be the case, however. Using a little know-how, you can execute an effective workout with minimal space and even less equipment.
This workout is part of a series of articles. We’ll show you full-body workouts you can utilise at different times, so you’ll be able to keep in shape.
Today we’ll start with one that can be done whether at sea or in port. We’re going to make the most of the space we have on deck, with the bonus of enjoying the fresh air while we train.
Text by Steve Burden, Dream Sails
Photos by Nayeem Chowdhury
We will be using limited equipment to preserve as much of our limited storage space as we can:
With a set of resistance bands weighing next to nothing and taking up no more space than a briefcase, they are the perfect sort of kit for our needs; as is a rope, a stock item on most ships.
Now that you’re fully kitted out, it’s time to get to the workout itself. There are five exercises that between them will work our entire body. They will incorporate both strength training as well as cardiovascular conditioning. Find yourself a sturdy, vertical support, such as the ship’s mast, to secure your equipment around.
There are also a few important final notes you should keep in mind while doing this workout:
If you make sure to follow all of these, you are guaranteed to have your workout go swimmingly. Now we’re ready to go!
Our first exercise is a seated resistance band row, designed to work your back and biceps.
For this second exercise, we’re working your chest and your triceps.
Our next exercise is resistance band crunches, which work your core, especially your abs.
Our last resistance band exercise of this workout is squats, which are designed to work the legs.
Our last exercise of the day uses the other piece of equipment, the rope. This will work out your arms and shoulders, as well as being an intense cardio workout.
This should be plenty to keep you fighting fit and ready for life at sea.
Let us know in the comments, on social media, or by email how it goes for you.
Feel free to share any of your own suggestions for great exercises and workouts to do at sea, in port, or even ashore.
Check out the equipment on Amazon (we may get a little commission too)
