Cruise Ship Fitness Centers
"Buff
or Buffet"?
by
Linda Coffman
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Even
small cruise ships such as Windstar Cruises' Wind Surf contain fully-equipped exercise facilities |
A popular Cruise Directors' quip
during debarkation briefings is, "You came on as passengers,
you'll be leaving as cargo." While it's meant as a joke, it
does contain a ring
of truth. Food, tasty and plentiful, is available 24-hours a day on
most cruise ships.
Vacations, especially cruise
vacations, can be hazardous to your waistline if you aren't careful.
Eating "out" for all meals and sampling different cuisines
can pile on unaccustomed calories. Most hotels, including some top
resorts, have fitness facilities; however, few can compare to those on
modern cruise ships. Maintaining a fitness regimen at sea is no
problem with a wide assortment of exercise machines such as stationary
bikes, treadmills, and stair steppers. As a bonus, shipboard fitness
centers with floor-to-ceiling windows have the world's most inspiring
sea views.
 |
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The
aerobics room on Silversea Cruises' Silver Whisper has a
cushioned floor |
For guests who prefer a more social
atmosphere as they burn off that sinful chocolate dessert, there are
specialized fitness classes for all levels of ability. High-impact,
energetic aerobics are not for everyone, but any class that raises the
heart rate can be toned-down and tailored to individual capabilities.
In addition, there are stretching classes to warm up for a light jog
or brisk walk on deck, and even sit-for-fitness classes for mature
passengers or those with delicate joints. Perhaps you are just
starting a fitness program and require individualized attention. Look
for fitness experts or personal trainers onboard to get you off on the
right foot.
Watch your ship's daily bulletin for
the times classes are scheduled and to determine if your cruise line
has a bonus program for participation. Some cruise lines offer prizes—from
sun visors and tee-shirts to water bottles and tote bags—to
passengers who take part in their fitness programs.
Spa Cuisine
To the delight of many health and weight-conscious passengers,
cruise ships offer light and low-calorie options, as well as
vegetarian dishes that can be even tastier than the main menu.
According to Jeanne Jones, the chef, author, and syndicated columnist
who developed the tempting Spa Menus for Windstar Cruises, the
''lighter menus maintain nutritional value and taste integrity."
She adds, "We're talking about moderation in calories and fat
grams, here, not deprivation in taste and standards."
Fitness Tips
- When selecting exercise classes,
be aware that most are complimentary, but there is an additional
fee for some (such as Yoga, Spinning, and Pilates)
- Turn your back on the elevators
and use the stairs—they
are the ultimate "step machines"
- Walk,
walk, walk!
- Drink
plenty of water to remain hydrated, even if you don't feel thirsty
- To
control calories, request that any sauces featured with your
entree be served on the side; ditto for salad dressing
As
the cruise progresses... slacks and shorts with elastic waistbands can
become fundamental to comfort.
However,
have no fear—it's actually possible to lose weight on a cruise and return home more buff
than buffet.
Cruise
Ship Spas
— Believe it or not, some items on the spa
"menu" sound good enough to eat
Romance at Sea
—
Enhance your cruise vacation with these hints
