Going The Distance: Training Tips for Vacation

Many people don't really think about the amount of daily activity they get. Their days are happily managed at home, with a careful balance or work and rest. These people are never quite prepared for the exercise and environmental conditions that await on their Walt Disney World vacation. Most guests cover between 8-10 miles a day on their Disney vacations. We've gathered together a few great tips for the average go to go the distance and get in a little bit of training for their Disney vacation.


Going The Distance: Training Tips for Vacation


Tips For Training Before Vacation:

A few months before vacation, start adding some light exercise to your daily routine. Take walks and go a little bit further every week. My family likes to work up to 2 " 3 mile walks before we leave. Don't worry about the speed, it's your endurance that matters. Here's a 12 week walking plan from the Mayo Clinic.

Park at the back of the parking lot when you're out and about town. The extra distance will passively help you get ready for walking the space between rides in the Parks.

If you're not used to the extra exercise, be sure to listen to your body, and stretch out any tight areas at the end of your day.

Be sure to take extra good care of yourself in the weeks before you travel. Get plenty of rest and boost your immune system with a healthy diet. Visit the doctor at the first sign of feeling unwell, you don't want to be sick on your trip.


The Partners Statue


Tips For Once You've Arrived At Walt Disney World:

Bring more than one pair of comfortable walking shoes, and switch each day. This will help you to avoid blisters, and give your feet a bit of variety.

Take a dip in the pool. A 20 minute swim will help your body to reduce swelling through the change in hydrostatic pressure. Plus, floating in the water relieves pressure on your joints and is generally a lot of fun.

Standing in queue is a different sort of strain than walking. While you and your family is doing the shuffle through the queue, make sure you stretch your feet and ankles to keep the circulation moving.


World Showcase Promenade is 1.2 Miles Long


Take a break when you need it, there's no shame in needing to take a break out of the sun and crowds for a bit. Check out our previous articles with lists of attractions to relax on at the Magic Kingdom and in Epcot.

Put your legs up at night. Once you get back to the hotel room in the evening, be sure to lay down on the bed and raise your feet up high against the wall for at least 15 minutes. This will help reduce swelling in your legs and feet, to make sure you're refreshed for the next day. Here are some more tips to revive tired legs.


Prayer Flags On The Path To Forbidden Mountain



Most of all have fun and be kind to yourself. The Walt Disney World property is gigantic and if you're not used to walking you're going to get tired, but there are lots of ways to slow down and take it easy so that everyone can enjoy their vacation.