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Fitness Vacations Can Be Affordable

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Have you ever yearned for a vacation that truly recharges, rejuvenates, and jumpstarts a healthier way of living? Fitness spas are a great way to do it, but the rates can be steep-more than $5,000 a week-unless you know where to look.
The winner in a recent Spas of America ranking of the Top 100, New Life Hiking Spa (newlifehikingspa.com) in the Green Mountains of Vermont has been a popular destination for more than 30 years, and is among the most affordable. Costs range from $225 to $265 per night and include plenty of great meals and snacks (how does grilled salmon, fresh sautéed veggies, and wild rice sound?); a massage every three nights; guided nature walks and hikes for all fitness levels; and a variety of other activities, including local sightseeing excursions, cooking classes, and as much time to yourself as you like.

“The world is not a healthy place, and this is an oasis” says New Life founder Jimmy LeSage. “People use it as a refuge, to get healthy, and make a lifestyle change-and weight loss is a byproduct.”

Recharge at Home

If a spa getaway isn’t in your immediate future, all is not lost. “Customize the essence of this into your individual lifestyle,” suggests LeSage. Start while grocery shopping,
by choosing lots of foods with high water content.

  • Fill most of your cart in the produce section.
  • Next, shop the periphery for meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and a bit of cheese.
  • Finally, buy a small amount from the center of the store.

For exercise, aim for 20 minutes of aerobic exercise on most days, to get your blood flowing. Stretch daily, and strength train a few times a week. To explore spa options, visit spasofamerica.com.