The holiday season is upon us and that means festive parties, happy hours and New Year’s celebrations. While this “eating season” means fantastic food and drink, it’s important to not lose focus on your health and fitness in between all the parties. As I recently set some new fitness goals, join in me in the quest to stay fit during the holidays! Here are some quick tips for a healthy, happy holiday season.
1. Enlist a friend – Working out with a buddy strengthens your commitment to staying fit. By joining a friend for workouts, you are less likely to skip a workout and ease up on exercising during the holidays. There is truly strength in numbers, stay focused with a friend!
2. Keep a food & exercise journal – While it may sound crazy to write down everything you eat, it’s a great way to monitor what you’re consuming. We all like to indulge during the holidays especially on Thanksgiving (with all the fantastic food) but a journal will give you the ability to see when you are overindulging. Also log the results of your workouts, the simple act of writing it down will keep you more accountable.
3. Staying hydrated – Staying hydrated makes you feel more full. Before and after your workouts, drink plenty of water. There are many different opinions on how much water you should drink every day. Many health authorities recommend eight 8 ounce glasses, which equals roughly 2 liters or half a gallon. This is called the 8×8 rule and is very easy to remember.
4. Plan Ahead – In order to stay active and healthy during the holidays, you need a plan. Your schedule will become very busy with visiting family and friends, shopping, and holiday parties. It’s important to map out a plan for working out, eating healthy, and getting the proper amount of rest.
5. Improvise – While my best workouts are usually at the gym, sometimes you need to be able to improvise during the holidays. Weather, traffic, events can change your workout plans. Find a workout that you can complete from home or even on the road. Also if you are really pressed for time, have a 20 minute workout in the morning and one at night. The important part is you put the time in.
6. Get an App – Technology is your friend when it comes to staying healthy. There are numerous apps that you can download to track your workout progress for iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. Or you can also invest in one of the fitness trackers such as a Fitbit or Jawbone that will directly download the data onto your phone.
7. Be Consistent – Consistency is the key to staying healthy year round. While the holidays present a unique challenge with great food and parties, it doesn’t mean you have to give in. Practice moderation and you will be able to find the right balance during the holiday season!
