Let’s face it: long road trips are sometimes difficult. From family members asking, “Are we there yet?” to getting leg cramps from sitting for too long, it’s good to be prepared. Lucky for you, there are exercises you can do sitting in a car or RV to avoid discomfort! 

If you’re planning a lengthy commute, it is important to keep your muscles active and awake. In this Cruise America guide, we will walk you through some useful car exercises to help soothe your travel aches and get you pumped for your fantastic trip.     

10 Car Exercises for Road Trips

Keeping your body active and stimulated is a great way to avoid unnecessary physical discomfort. These 10 car exercises are a great starting point:

1. Ankle pumps

The technique for ankle pumps is straightforward. With your feet on the mat, slightly lift one foot while keeping your toes down. Then, point your toes upward before repeating this technique with your other foot.

2. Abdominal contractions

Start by drawing your belly button in towards your spine. Keep breathing as you normally would. Hold this position for 20-30 seconds before releasing your belly button. Feel free to repeat this cycle as many times as you desire.

3. Seated side bend

Whether you’re seated on the passenger side or in the back seat, a side bend is a simple stretching technique that anyone can do. Sit up straight with your back against the seat, then place your hands behind your head with your fingers clasped. Keep your spine straight as you bend to your right, then your left. Hold your position for a few seconds before returning to your starting point.

4. Bumper push-ups

At some point during your commute, you’ll have to stop for gas or lunch. Take this opportunity to work on your upper body strength by doing bumper push-ups. Place your hands on your bumper (shoulder-width apart) with your feet in an elevated plank position. Lower your elbows to 90 degrees before pressing away from the car. Make sure you exhale as you push yourself back up.

5. Rear-ender

If you plan on hitting the road early, rear-enders can keep you alert. Plus, they’re great cardio bursts. Stand about a foot away from the trunk of your car. Keep your chest lifted and lift your left knee high until your toes tap the bumper of your car. Slowly lift your right leg as you bring your left foot to the ground. A good starting point is 20 repetitions. 

6. Calf raises

To do this car exercise, you must first plant your feet on the floor. Raise your heels as high as possible as you put more weight on the balls of your feet. Stretch your shins by rocking back on your heels. You can take it up a notch by placing a small ball under the ball of your foot, which will increase your range of motion. 

7. Chin tucks

Chin tucks are some of the best exercises to do while sitting in a car. They can soothe your neck pain and relax your muscles. To start, look straight ahead before bringing your chin down to your chest. Hold that position for five seconds. Lift your head slowly until you can feel your headrest. Breathe normally as you tuck in your chin. 

8. Forearm exercises

Whether you play football, golf, or any sport that requires the use of your hands, a strong grip is essential. You can improve your grip by strengthening your forearm. To do this, tightly wrap your fingers around a tennis ball and squeeze for two seconds before releasing your grip. You can repeat this process several times on each hand.

9. Knee lifts

Knee lift exercises are essential for stimulating your hip flexor and abdominal muscles. Start by sitting up straight on your seat and keeping your legs at a 90-degree angle. Maintain this posture and slowly pull your knees toward your chest. We recommended repeating this exercise 15 times for proper stimulation. 

10. Squat holds

Used as a warm-up, squat holds can enhance your lower body strength and core control. Plus, you can do them during one of your rest stops. Lower your body as if you’re sitting on a chair while keeping your knees beneath your toes. Try to keep your knees from bending more than 90 degrees and maintain your position for 20-30 seconds. Keep your arms in front of you for balance and stability.

Stay Healthy and Alert With Cruise America

Make the most out of your commute with these simple car exercises, and give yourself the energy you need to enjoy your vacation. 

With a Cruise America RV rental, you have all the space you need to stretch your muscles and keep your blood circulating. Our large rental options are 30 feet long, so you know you are in for a treat!

Contact us to get started today!