Great nomadic workout tools to help you stay healthy

Nomad, a person or a community of people who live a mobile lifestyle, traveling from one place to another in search of food, water, shelter, and other resources necessary for survival, how could that person stay healthy and what are great nomadic workout tools? Nomads do not have a permanent home and do not stay in one place for an extended period of time. They typically move with their livestock or follow natural resources such as water and vegetation. Nomadic lifestyles have been practiced for thousands of years by various cultures! Particularly in regions where the environment is harsh and resources are scarce. Today, there are still communities of nomads in different parts of the world, though their numbers have decreased significantly due to urbanization and modernization.

From moving often, some people forget about their health and doing exercises! There are some nomads who actually move a lot with their bodies and their daily life is enough if they exercise. However, in the modern world, more and more nomads are so-called digital nomads. Those digital nomads use transport like Airplanes/Trains/Buses and rent a place for some time while working inside an apartment or even a coffee while sitting all day. If funny how people who travel all the time sit or stay without actually moving their bodies most of the time. For this kind of person, digital nomad or not, we have some tips and tools that help you exercise.

It doesn’t matter if you are a nomad or you are just traveling, here you can find amazing nomadic workout tools. The rules for the nomadic workout tools are:

• to be light way
• to be simple
• to take little space inside your backpack
• if possible to have multiple uses

Full-body workout and power nomadic workout tools:

Bands

Probably the best and my favorite one from the nomadic workout tools are bands. With bands, you can hit multiple muscle groups and have full-body workouts and weekly cycles. It’s like carrying a little gym with you! Bands have a lot of variations of exercises. Here are some that will definitely help you – Best exercises with bands.

Bands are particularly well-suited for a nomadic lifestyle due to the following reasons:

1. Portability: Bands are lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, making them perfect for individuals who are constantly on the move. They take up minimal space in your luggage or backpack, allowing you to bring your workout equipment wherever you go without adding much weight or bulk.
2. Space-efficient: When you’re living a nomadic lifestyle, you may not always have access to a dedicated workout space or a fully equipped gym. Bands take up very little space, and you can perform a wide range of exercises with just a small area. Whether you’re in a tiny hotel room, a campsite, or a temporary accommodation, you can still get a full-body workout using bands.
3. Versatility: Bands offer a diverse range of exercises that target different muscle groups. With just a single set of bands, you can work on your upper body, lower body, and core, and even perform stretching and mobility exercises. This versatility allows you to maintain a well-rounded fitness routine regardless of your location.
4. No need for additional equipment: Unlike other fitness equipment that may require additional components or setups, bands can be used on their own. You don’t need heavy weights, machines, or specialized gear to get a challenging workout. Bands provide resistance, and you can anchor them to door frames, and furniture, or even use your body as an anchor point.
5. Minimal maintenance: Bands are relatively low-maintenance compared to other fitness equipment. They are durable and don’t require regular cleaning or upkeep. Just be sure you store them properly and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or sharp objects. They can last for a long time, making them ideal for a nomadic lifestyle where you may not have access to extensive maintenance resources.
6. Cost-effective: Bands are generally affordable compared to other fitness equipment options. This is particularly beneficial for individuals living a nomadic lifestyle who may have budget constraints. Or if you just prefer not to invest heavily in fitness equipment that they will constantly be moving around.

Overall, resistance bands provide a practical and effective solution for staying fit while embracing a nomadic lifestyle. They offer convenience, versatility, and simplicity, allowing you to maintain a consistent workout routine regardless of where your travels take you.

Cross-grips

Cross grips, also known as crossover grips or crisscross grips, are a type of hand placement used in strength training exercises. They are helpful particularly when performing pulling or pushing movements. They involve crossing your hands over each other to grasp a bar or handle, with one hand positioned above the other and the palms facing in opposite directions.

Cross grips are commonly used in exercises such as pull-ups, chin-ups, lat pulldowns, and cable rows. When performing these exercises with cross grips, the hand placement creates a unique grip variation that can have several benefits:

1. Increased grip strength: Cross grips challenge your grip strength in a different way compared to traditional overhand or underhand grips. The crossed-hand position requires more forearm and grip strength to maintain control of the bar or handle.
2. Engages different muscle groups: Cross grips can shift the emphasis of the exercise to different muscle groups. For example, when performing pull-ups or chin-ups with a cross grip, the focus may shift more toward the biceps and inner back muscles. Compared to the traditional overhand grip, which primarily targets the upper back and lats.
3. Provides variety and muscle stimulation: Switching hand positions and using cross grips can add variety to your workouts, helping to stimulate your muscles in different ways. This variation can contribute to muscle growth and prevent plateauing.
4. Improves coordination and stability: Cross grips require coordination and stability as you perform the exercises. Balancing the crossed-hand position while pulling or pushing challenges your body’s stability and enhances overall coordination.

It’s important to note that cross grips may feel uncomfortable or awkward initially, especially if you’re not accustomed to using them. It may take some practice and adjustment to find a comfortable hand placement. Additionally, individuals with shoulder, wrist, or elbow issues should exercise caution when using cross grips and consult with a fitness professional or healthcare provider if necessary.

As with any exercise technique or grip variation, it’s important to listen to your body and use proper form to minimize the risk of injury.

Stretching and cardio nomadic workout tools:

Yoga-mat

Yes, a yoga mat can be a great accessory for a nomadic lifestyle. Even though yoga mats are quite spacey, usually backpacks and other traveling kits have special pockets where you can fit your yoga mat. What makes a yoga mat, one of the good nomadic workout tools is that it has multiple uses!

You can use it on the beach as a towel, camping for something to lay at, a workout mat, for picnics, and many more. Here are some examples of why you should get one:

1. Portability: Yoga mats are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry. They are typically made of materials that are durable yet foldable or rollable, making them convenient for transportation. You can easily pack a yoga mat into a backpack, suitcase, or any other travel bag without taking up much space.
2. Versatility: A yoga mat serves multiple purposes beyond just practicing yoga. It provides a clean and comfortable surface for various exercises, stretching routines, bodyweight workouts, and meditation sessions. Whether you’re doing a HIIT workout, practicing Pilates, or simply need a padded surface for bodyweight exercises. A yoga mat offers versatility for different fitness activities.
3. Personal space and hygiene: When living a nomadic lifestyle, you may find yourself in various environments where the cleanliness or condition of the floor might be uncertain. Having a yoga mat ensures you have a personal and clean surface to exercise on. It provides a barrier between you and the floor, protecting you from dirt, germs, or rough surfaces.
4. Comfort and joint support: Yoga mats provide cushioning and support for your joints during exercises. Whether you’re doing yoga poses, floor-based workouts, or stretching routines, the mat helps to reduce discomfort and impact on your body. This is particularly beneficial when working out in locations where the floor might be hard or uneven.
5. Defined workout area: A yoga mat creates a designated workout space wherever you go. This is especially useful if you’re staying in shared accommodations or public spaces. As it allows you to establish your workout area and helps maintain a sense of personal space and privacy.
6. Outdoor use: If you enjoy outdoor workouts, a yoga mat can provide a clean and comfortable surface to exercise on. Whether you’re practicing yoga in a park, doing bodyweight exercises on a beach, or enjoying a scenic spot for a meditation session, the mat offers a barrier between you and the ground.

A lot of bigger backpacks have space for yoga mats, which are not inside the backpack. That way it doesn’t take up too much space. Also, they are yoga mats that are not heavy. In that way, it makes it great for travelers and nomads. Not all yoga mats are so amazing to fit the criteria for nomadic workout tools! Be picky with the size, weight, and comfort!

Consider choosing a lightweight and durable yoga mat specifically designed for travel. Some travel-friendly options are thinner and foldable, making them easier to pack and carry. It’s also a good idea to clean and maintain your mat regularly to ensure hygiene and longevity.

Overall, a yoga mat can be a practical and useful fitness accessory for a nomadic lifestyle. It provides comfort, hygiene, and a designated workout space wherever your travels take you.

Jumping rope

Jumping rope, also known as skipping, is an excellent exercise tool for nomads and travelers due to its many benefits. Here are some reasons why having a jumping rope is good for nomads:

1. Portability: Jump ropes are incredibly compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry in your luggage or backpack. They take up very little space and add minimal weight to your travel gear. This makes them a convenient fitness option for those on the move.
2. Full-body workout: Jumping rope engages multiple muscle groups, including the legs, core, arms, and shoulders. It’s a comprehensive cardiovascular exercise that can help you burn calories and improve overall fitness.
3. Cardiovascular health: Skipping rope is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular fitness. It increases your heart rate, improves circulation, and strengthens your heart and lungs. This is particularly beneficial for travelers who may not have access to traditional cardio equipment like treadmills or stationary bikes.
4. Endurance and stamina: Regularly incorporating jumping rope into your fitness routine can help build endurance and stamina. This can be especially useful for activities like hiking or exploring new destinations on foot, where you need sustained energy.
5. Coordination and balance: Jumping rope requires coordination and balance, which can help improve your overall agility and motor skills. These skills can be valuable for various outdoor activities and adventures during your travels.
6. Time-efficient: Jumping rope is a highly time-efficient workout. You can get a great workout in just 15-30 minutes, making it easy to fit into your busy travel schedule.
7. Versatility: Jump ropes offer a wide range of exercise options. You can vary your workout by changing the speed, and jumping style (e.g., single leg, double unders), or incorporating other exercises like high knees or crossovers.
8. Low cost: Jump ropes are inexpensive fitness tools, and you don’t need a gym or special facilities to use them. This affordability makes them accessible to nomads on a budget.
9. Stress relief: Exercise, including jumping rope, can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being. This can be particularly important for travelers dealing with the stresses of navigating new environments and logistics.
10. Social interaction: Jumping rope is an activity that can be done solo or with others, making it a great way to meet fellow travelers or locals and engage in a fun and social fitness activity.

In summary, having a jumping rope as part of your fitness gear while traveling as a nomad is great. It provides a convenient and effective way to stay active and maintain your physical and mental well-being on the road. Its portability, versatility, and numerous health benefits make it a valuable addition to your travel fitness routine.

Conclusion for nomadic workout tools

In conclusion, incorporating a yoga mat, resistance bands, and cross-grips into your workout routine as a nomad offers several benefits. Firstly, a yoga mat provides a comfortable and stable surface for practicing various exercises and yoga poses, regardless of the terrain or environment you find yourself in. It not only cushions your body during floor exercises but also provides a designated space for meditation and relaxation.

Secondly, resistance bands are lightweight, portable, and versatile tools that allow you to engage in a full-body workout. With varying levels of resistance, they provide a convenient way to strengthen and tone muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall fitness. Their compact size makes them ideal for packing in your travel bag and incorporating into your workouts wherever you go.

Thirdly, cross-grips, or portable suspension trainers, offer a comprehensive workout experience for nomads. These adjustable straps can be easily anchored to a tree, door, or any sturdy structure, providing a platform for performing bodyweight exercises that target multiple muscle groups. Their compact design and lightweight nature make them an excellent choice for nomadic fitness enthusiasts.

When choosing to travel, it is crucial to prioritize lightweight, portable, and small fitness products like yoga mats, resistance bands, and cross-grips. These compact exercise tools not only take up minimal space in your luggage but also allow you to maintain your fitness routine wherever your nomadic adventures take you. By investing in these versatile and easily transportable workout aids, you can ensure that staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle remains a priority no matter where you are in the world.