Keeping fit on the road: road warriors exercise, eat right and drink lots of water.

• Author: Kapp, Jennifer
• Position: Business Travel

Business travelers don't have to throw in the towel on their personal fitness programs. Indiana hotels and restaurants often find themselves ahead of customer demand in providing better access to exercise equipment and lighter, nutritious menu items.

"When we offer something new, it can take time to catch on. My hat's off to these road warriors," says Mike Larson, general manager for the Indianapolis Sheraton. "They're in a different bed every night, some of them, and there's a routine they have and a comfort level they have with some of the same old choices."

Yet health-conscious business travelers know that it's best not to skip exercise or settle for eating comfort foods while away from home. "They should maintain their same routine while they're away," says Kevin Gallagher, general manager of the Adam's Mark hotel in downtown Indianapolis.

GETTING OUTSIDE

Rebecca Johnson and Bill Tulin, authors of a book titled Travel Fitness, say business travelers need to keep challenging themselves physically even when they are on the go. They suggest that busy travelers make sure they find exercise time by scheduling it into their Palm Pilot in advance. "For many, committing it to a time slot ensures that it will get done."

Going for a run or brisk walk Outdoors is a fast way to fight jet lag, Johnson and Tulin advise. Exercising outdoors gives travelers an aerobic workout plus helps build familiarity with the surrounding area.

"I always plan in advance to get out and do something as soon as I check in," says Ann Rein, spokeswoman for University Place at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. "I think it's good to get out and go for a walk or go to a museum and walk around.

It gets your trip started on the right foot, and it's a much better use of your time than taking a nap in the room.

Travelers who run should find out in advance if a hotel is located near jogging trails, a municipal park or a riverfront walk. Convention-goers who stay at a resort facility will probably have access to a variety of walking or running routes. "We have an aerial map of the trails, and they're coded by the type of terrain," says Mark Mahoney, general manager of French Lick Springs Resort.

Some of French Lick's trails are designed for an easy walk and follow a level course, while other trails intended for a demanding run involve inclines. The routes range from one to three miles long.

Trails also are a draw for health-conscious visitors to Indiana's state...