Spread the love

tranquil garden sceneFor many, a holiday is a chance to indulge, relax, and escape everyday stress. However, the beautiful low-rise resort Hyatt Regency Hua Hin is the ideal destination for those seeking mental and physical wellness while staying active and shedding a few pounds. With a magnificent long beachfront, fresh sea air, multiple pools, healthy food options, and ample exercise opportunities, it’s easy to focus on fitness without sacrificing the fun and enjoyment of a break from city or work life.

I’ve often been asked about my recent transformation, as friends and colleagues noticed my healthier, fitter appearance through social media. My secret? There are no magic pills or shortcuts—just effort, exercise, and a balanced diet. Here’s how I achieved my goals and how you can, too.

A New Beginning

My fitness journey began after a long-awaited vacation in the UK, my first trip home in five years. While it was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with friends and family, it was also filled with emotional challenges. My beloved aunt, the last of my close relatives apart from my siblings, was diagnosed with terminal cancer and a few months later passed away very recently after my visit to say goodbye. It hit me harder than I thought.

During this time, I wasn’t focused on healthy eating. There were countless meals with loved ones, accompanied by drinks and indulgent treats. By the time I returned to Thailand, I had gained 6 kg and knew I needed to make some changes—especially with a beach holiday on the horizon.

The Countdown to My Beach Vacation

I had three months to prepare for my September beach holiday at the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin. At the time, I weighed 81 kg, and my goal was to reach 75 kg. I started by reducing my calorie intake and increasing my activity, mainly walking. However, the last few kilograms are always the hardest to shed.

When I arrived at the resort, I was still at 79 kg. My height is 5ft 10.5 inches, giving me a BMI of 24.4, but I wasn’t where I wanted to be just yet. My strategy? Stick to 1,500-1,600 calories daily and burn around 750 calories daily through exercise.

A Fitness-Focused Routine

One of the best aspects of a beach holiday is the natural rhythm it provides—early rise, early bed. I took this opportunity to establish a routine that helped me achieve my fitness goals while still enjoying my holiday.

Each morning, I went for a 3-4 km walk before breakfast, followed by a swim in the pool. For breakfast, instead of fried eggs and bacon, I opted for healthier choices like smoked tuna carpaccio, rich in omega-3 and packed with vitamins and amino acids. There was no dressing, just a squeeze of lime and a dash of Tabasco. Pair that with fresh fruit, and I was set for the day.

Throughout the day, I kept active. The resort offered plenty of activities, and I found myself swimming, walking, and participating in daily water aerobics classes, which burned around 258 calories per hour. By skipping lunch or having a small snack like a banana, I could maintain a calorie deficit, which helped me steadily lose weight.

The Hyatt Regency Hua Hin is more than just a beautiful beach destination; it’s a fantastic environment for anyone looking to improve their health and fitness. Photo AJWood

The Hyatt Regency Hua Hin is more than just a beautiful beach destination; it’s a fantastic environment for anyone looking to improve their health and fitness.

Evening Relaxation and Balance

By evening, after walking another few kilometres on the beach, I was ready for a well-earned meal. I made sure to stick to healthier choices, avoiding fatty foods and beer that could undo my hard work. Instead of beer, I enjoyed white wine spritzers, which were refreshing and lower in calories. My dinners consisted of vegetarian options or lean proteins, with the fat trimmed off where possible.

Reaching My Goal

During my 13-day stay at the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, I walked over 119 kilometres, swam daily, and kept up with upper-body weight training in the gym. This regimen burned more calories than I consumed, and my weight dropped.

As I write this, I’m thrilled to share that I’m currently at 75.9 kg, just shy of my 75 kg goal, with three days left. I feel healthier, fitter, and more energised than ever before.

The Takeaway

The Hyatt Regency Hua Hin is more than just a beautiful beach destination; it’s a fantastic environment for anyone looking to improve their health and fitness. With its abundance of fresh air, healthy food options, and activities, it’s easy to stay on track and even make progress on your fitness journey. This could be the perfect destination if you’re looking for a holiday that helps you relax, eat well, and get fit.

 

 

Written & Photos by: Andrew J Wood

 

 

 

 

 

====================================