Tips For The Holidays

In addition to eating sensibly during the holidays, it is also important to exercise. Many, however, get “too busy” during this season or just don’t feel like exercising during the holidays—especially since normal routines are often temporarily put on hold.

Next to diet, however, exercise is the most important factor for achieving and maintaining optimum physical health as well as keeping your weight in check. It can also stimulate circulation, keep muscles toned, and help diminish the effects of stress. 

Regular physical activity is one of the simplest, least expensive and most rewarding ways to maintain a healthy body—even during all the holiday festivities. So, before you get into the throes of the holidays, make a pact with yourself to continue incorporating good nutrition and fitness into your routine. 

Here are some ways you can keep fit—even during the busiest of holiday schedules:

• First of all, don’t put your fitness goals on hold until the New Year. If you cannot exercise as often or as long as you want, then adjust accordingly. It’s better to cut back on fitness time, than to eliminate it.
• Integrate exercise times into your schedule. Mark these on your calendar as appointments and set aside time to complete them. 
• Resist the “couch potato syndrome”; instead, walk around the block.  Or you can exercise on a rebounder, treadmill, or exercise bike—even while watching TV or listening to your favorite holiday music.   
• If traveling, pack workout clothes and equipment like resistance bands or exercise videos. Then use them!
• Walk the dog frequently or walk the mall while doing your holiday shopping.
• Choose an exercise you enjoy and work out with a friend.
• Do not let more than 2 days go by without exercising—even if it is a reduced workout.
• On days when you might lack motivation, do only 10 minutes of exercise. 

If you usually go to the gym or a class to exercise, consider exercising at home. You might be more inclined to exercise if you don’t have to go somewhere to complete it.

Don’t let the holidays cause you to put fitness on hold. By starting now and continuing during the holiday season, you could avoid the holiday weight gain, feel better, and have more energy to enjoy your gatherings with family and friends