Maintaining physical activity and wellness remains an urgent theme for travelers and individuals alike, especially as trends continue to evolve. With experts weighing on the importance of integrating fitness within daily routines, both actively engaged travel and personal health efforts are gaining momentum.
Backroads, the leader in active travel, anticipates significant transformations within the travel industry for 2025 based on early guest bookings. Their findings reveal exciting trends reflecting various interests across ages and styles.
First on the list is the growing enthusiasm for women-only trips. These exclusive adventures, be they for solo travelers or those accompanied by family or friends, are projected to see more than double the participation compared to 2024. "Trends come and go, but the desire to explore new and inspiring places or return to favorites never goes out of style," remarked Tom Hale, Founder, President, and CEO of Backroads.
Another notable trend highlights the rising demand for challenging hiking experiences set against breathtaking backdrops. Enthusiasts are seeking rigorous trails and mountain adventures, pointing toward our innate desire to connect with nature. Yet, there remains room for those seeking relaxation; Backroads is also catering to those interested in leisurely explorations across stunning landscapes.
Meanwhile, for those desiring solitude amid natural beauty, the enchanting islands of Portugal and accessible off-the-beaten-path destinations are generating buzz. Backroads has expanded its offerings to include trips to destinations like the Azores and Madeira due to surging interest.
While the travel industry forges ahead, experts also stress the importance of individual wellness. Christiaan Abildso, WVU Extension Specialist for Physical Activity, urges people to prioritize their fitness during the often-busy holiday season.
"Write yourself intothe schedule. Routine helps to keep us active, but routines are difficult to maintain when our lives get busy. So, make a schedule of all your holiday parties and family gatherings, and be sure to include time set aside for yourself," Abildso advised.
He emphasizes the power of planning, recommending future travelers look up maps before departing to identify exercise-friendly environments like parks or quiet streets. Abildso also acknowledges obstacles such as bad weather but insists there are numerous indoor options. Simple movements can encompass stairs within one’s home or the abundance of online yoga tutorials available.
"Motivation can be hard to find during the holidays and winter months. Look for ways to make physical activity something you look forward to. Start small—those little changes can have compounding effects over time," he notes.
The conversation eventually shifts to inspiring figures maintaining their fitness well beyond their prime. Veteran actor Nana Patekar, aged 75, embodies the active lifestyle many aspire to. Known not just for his roles on screen, Patekar dedicates time each day to his fitness routine, reinforcing the notion of health as self-love. "Life becomes magical once you learn to love yourself. If you cringe after looking at yourself in the mirror, then you have lost charm in life," he shared during recent interviews.
Patekar’s workout philosophy focuses on timeless methods, advocating for exercises accessible to anyone. "You don’t need high-end gyms—just baithaks (Hindu squats) and Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations) can invigorate your body and improve overall fitness, all without equipment," he added.
The actor’s timeless perspective draws numerous enthusiasts who strive for active routines regardless of age. Simple exercises like squats and stretches remain beneficial, reinforcing how even the most straightforward activities can cultivate significant shifts toward improved health.
To round up the insights, the following tips can help pave the way for sustained wellness: dedicate time daily for movement, listen to your body, focus on nutrition, stay hydrated, cultivate positive thought patterns, and engage in hobbies. Consistency emerges as the common denominator underlying every successful approach to remaining active.
To encapsulate the essence of the current wellness trend, it is clear: investing time and energy toward physical activity shapes our experiences and enhances our quality of life. Whether through adventurous travel or personal fitness routines, individuals can take charge of their health pathways.
So as 2025 approaches, travelers and individuals alike should approach wellness as both an adventure worth embarking upon and as fundamental to their lifestyle choices. Exploring new destinations, making memories, and embracing activity might very well be the formula for leading fulfilling lives.
