It’s important to stay active during the holidays for a couple of reasons. First, you’ve put in so much time and effort to get to this point and have achieved positive results that you don’t want to let that go by the wayside during the holidays. Staying active can help increase your energy levels as well as keep the stress levels down. We don’t realize how stressful the holidays can sometimes be so getting our workouts in are helpful.
Second, if you don’t stay active and plan on attending those holiday parties, you are sure to put on the weight. During the holiday season, there can be a tendency to gain one to two pounds or more if you’re not careful. That can impact short and long-term health. That alone should be motivation to get to the gym.
Here’s how to stay active during the holidays. First, try to stay consistent with your workouts. Create a schedule that works best for you so you can stick to it. Whatever time of day you decide to workout make sure to pack your bag the night before, so you don’t forget anything. Find a gym buddy to work out with for accountability purposes. Create a program of what your workout will look like each day so that you don’t get to the gym guessing.
If you can’t make it to the gym, avoid sitting as much as possible. Try to incorporate more walking into your daily routine. Take breaks from your desk and walk around. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you drive to work, park your car further from the entrance. Grab a friend and take a walk around the mall or go to the track. Go on hikes. Go bike riding. Go ice skating. Find an activity that you like.
If you travel during the holidays, you can still get your workouts in. If you’re staying at a hotel you can use the gym available there. If not, see if you can buy a guest pass at the local Y or studio. Make it a family affair. Invite your extended family members to join you. It can be a fun way to spend some quality time with family that you don’t get to see often. You might even inspire or motivate them to workout if they’re not already doing so.
The goal should be to make it to the gym or get your workouts in no less than 5 days a week. You can make it six days if you want to include yoga and or Pilates. There should be at least one day of rest.
If you live in New York, this is a great time to go walking around the city and take in the sights during the holidays. You will be surprised at the number of calories you can burn.
The bottom line is that there are so many options to stay active during the holidays. There are no excuses!
Enjoy the Holidays!
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