I’m very much a fitness fan and really love working out. I’m travelling for work a lot at the moment, so my primary goal is maintenance, but fitness is also really important for my mental health.
When I’m away, I always hit the hotel gym first thing in the morning. I do a little bit of interval running followed by an all-round body circuit for about 50-60 minutes in total. Exercising during my downtime is so good for the body and the soul.
If the weather is good, I love to go for a run. I did this in Glasgow recently and had a great run around the city. Everyone was telling me to have a fried Mars Bar, so I did… well I had to sample the local cuisine – those Mars Bars are delicious. This just so shows the contradiction that I am – I’m sure the run hardly burnt off the calories, but it was so worth it as you really get a feel for the place you’re staying in.
Working out also puts some structure into my life while I’m travelling. My routine is non-existent apart from my fitness. I suffer from chronic sleep deprivation, which is a terrible thing, so I grab structure when I can. When I’m desperately tired and I’ve got to wake up and work, I find that exercising really helps me focus on the working day ahead.
It also helps counteract room service and deep fried Mars Bars! I was in LA recently – I’m producing a film – and I had to schmooze the investors, so it was lots of rich food and wine. I was also one of the only people walking in LA – everyone drives - but I so prefer to experience a new place on foot.
And then with all that extra walking you can indulge. There’s nothing worse than having an allowance on the room and not using it - I’m not that stupid! Let’s face it, room service is a key perk of travelling with work.
I’ve also recently got into deep stretching – it helps with my posture and alleviates any muscle strains. The great thing is I can do it wherever I am – I just wake up and stretch, and yes, I’m a bit like a dog! It also acts as a kind of meditation, setting me for the day and helping me get my mind sorted.
Travelling with work can get a bit lonely, but luckily I’m a big fan of solitude. I enjoy my own company and love that time when work is finished and I’m lying on the hotel bed in a robe, watching a feel-good movie and having a glass of vino. It’s pure bliss for me.
Saying that, I think I’m ready to start sharing my life – and travel - with someone. I know a lot of business guys enjoy time away from their wife and kids but I’m the opposite. I’d love to be able to share all my wonderful work opportunities with someone.
I did recently take my dad Gary (pictured) away on, what has to be, the most memorable work trip ever. It was all-expenses trip to New Zealand for the British Lions Rugby tour. I definitely earned my top son points with that!
It was always a dream of mine to go on the Lions tour, but to go to New Zealand, which is a country I love, to be able to bring my dad along AND to work out there was such an experience. Seeing my dad’s face light up when I told him was everything! It was a truly emotional trip – one I will never forget in my life.
The only lady I travel with at the moment is Pearl – she’s my passport! She is very well travelled – in fact, she’s nearly full. Pearl’s been around the block, so Pearl: The Sequel will be accompanying me on these work trips soon.
I’ve got genuine ants in my pants when it comes to travel – I still get excited when I go away, even on a work trip! I love that thrill of going to the airport – even if I’m just flying up to Manchester. I’d happily be in a different place every week if I could.
Me and my dad have even thought about buying a camper van – so watch out for me on a road near you… I travel so far and wide with work, that I’d actually be quite happy to travel coast to coast in my van.
Recent research conducted by Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, highlighted that 88% of business travellers in the UK actively make an effort to experience the city they are visiting on business.
Crowne Plaza hotels Fitness Centres include a Run Station, which is equipped with jogging, walking and cycling maps, as well as complimentary water, fruit and towels, all of which gives guests a chance to pound the streets.
To find out more about how Crowne Plaza is changing the face of modern business travel, or to book a room, visit crowneplaza.com/businessmostly.
Personal Trainers are available at selected Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts