On Friday I depart for Hollywood - and no, not to become famous - but to control the famous! The company I work for is holding their annual entertainment event - PaleyFest LA, which brings together top stars and creative teams from today’s hottest TV shows for special screenings and panel discussions, all held at the famous Dolby Theatre (where the Oscars are held!) As the PR director, along with my team, we control the red carpet flow and handle all press on site. It's very exciting, yes, but I've got other work to do as well. Can you guess what that is?

Between the twelve events we’re holding, I must make sure my training stays in check. Just because I’m away from the office and out of my element, doesn’t mean slacking is in the cards. Don’t worry coach, you can trust that this little fit fanatic will swim, bike and run her way through the Hollywood Hills. If anything, I couldn’t be more excited to have new playing fields!

Let’s be real - going on a trip is tough on most of us, and throws off our fitness and eating schedule. But with most vacations or work trips, there are plenty of options in the local area to keep you honest. I for one did my research today and I am stoked for new faces, new places and warm weather! The internet is great and all, but let’s remember the good ‘ol concierge service at most hotels. I called up and spoke to a sweet man who set me up with some great options.

For swimming:
Option 1) The hotel has a large outdoor heated pool, open 6am - 11pm, giving me plenty of time to get in my strokes. Actually, that 6am time slot, which I have grown quite accustomed to, will be the perfect time to get the pool to myself (unless someone else has the same idea as me!); Option 2) LA Fitness is across the street and also has a pool open very, very early…except that I have to pay for entry. So let’s try and stick with option 1. The goal will be to swim 4 out of the 11 days I’m there, approximately 3500yds each time. Goggles, swim cap and swimsuit packed!

Excited for some sunshine, new sights, different paths...

For cycling:
Option 1) The hotel has a fitness center with indoor bikes available for use 24/7, but it doesn't provide the same workout a computrainer would as body positioning is completely off; Option 2) LA Fitness has a zillion cycling classes throughout the week, so that will at least challenge me more than doing it alone; Option 3) There is a Flywheel Sports 3 miles away, so not only can I get a killer class in there, but I can run there and back - a great BRick workout! (BRick = bike + run). I researched a ton for a computrainer class in LA/Hollywood and couldn’t find anything which is unfortunate because that will always be the best workout for my training (nothing like sitting on a real bike, working those hills and focusing on proper shifting & handling skills). Option 3 might just take the win. Plus, big fan of Flywheel over here.

For running:
Option 1) It’s spring! In California! The great outdoors are calling my name!; Option 2) The treadmill, but ONLY if it’s pouring or hailing; Extra credit) All that running to and fro my other training activities. Sure, cabs are the way to get around for most, but I sure love running my way through new places and getting the chance to explore anything but the overdone (though loved) Central Park. Running, I’m not worried about you one bit.

I made use of my hotel gym during my own bachelorette weekend in Vegas.

For fun:
Option 1) Yogaworks is 1 mile away from my hotel and hot yoga is a 10 minute walk. Might be nice to stretch it out and get some recovery time in there; Option 2) Cross Fit is across the street, and though I’d love to do it, probably not best during my training (can’t afford to get hurt); Option 3) Hiking. A very popular activity in SoCal and a friend told me I can Uber a car to some of the canyons. Ha. I may just do that; Option 4) SPA!!! Yes, yes, and yes. I will take a massage with a side of steam room and sauna please. I could use some tension relief as I approach spring training and more miles.

As for food, I think I’ll be just fine. The hotel’s dining options provide healthy choices (remember: modification is everything!) And there is a juice bar across the street so that I have some clean options for pre & post workout fuel and snacks. I also travel with all my friends - my trustworthy protein and fiber bars that satisfy and curb hunger. Plus, I am a hoarder of fruit when I hit new cities, so where there’s an apple, there’s certainly a way.

*Do you have any trips coming up? I suggest you start your fit research now and compile your notes. You’ll feel much better knowing your options, plus it will help you better understand the local area. Also, a pair of sneakers will get you very far - literally! Walks, runs, hikes, you have no excuses but to explore. And if you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere with little options, bring a resistance band or some small hand weights for hotel room workouts. Burpees, pushups, planks, sit ups, wall sits, and squats…they’re all fit for a small space.

If you’re traveling soon, here are some fit essentials I suggest you pack:
-sneakers (no-brainer)
-socks (2x # of days you’re away)
-shower-washable tops/sports bras (for possible re-use)
-shower-washable running shorts/leggings (good for workouts and hangouts)
-water bottle or fuel belt (hydration is key, especially when you don’t know your path)
-insurance card (incase of emergency)
-running fuel (drink mix, gels, chews, etc)
-heart rate monitor (test yourself in new environments!)
-sunglasses & visor (for those sunny cities!)
- sunblock & chapstick (need to stay protected)
-swimsuit (you never know!)
-power snacks (bars for the day traveller: KIND, Quest, Chia, etc.)
-resistance band or jump rope (for hotel room workouts)

Ok, so you may need a bigger suitcase, but it will be so worth it. SO GET AT IT! Because then you can enjoy that poolside sangria guilt-free!

And if you won't, I will :)

Hollywood, here I come,
-BForge