The holidays are upon us! It’s that special time for gathering with friends, family, and enjoying delicious food. But how do you maintain your fitness during this festive time? Personally, hitting the gym non-stop is not my idea of fun. Luckily, an expert is here to share some simple tips to help you stay fit during the holidays.
The holidays are a time for joy, gratitude, and plenty of eating! However, this can be a tricky period for those who are dedicated to their fitness routines. Weather conditions might close down gyms or make it tough for your regular run, and sometimes the specific foods you planned to eat aren’t available. Plus, all those parties and late-night eating can really mess with your fitness goals.
Don’t worry! Here are five effective ways to stay fit and strong during the holidays.
First, everything starts with a plan. Without one, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Grab a notebook and jot down all your holiday activities. Try to find an hour or two in your schedule for your fitness routine. It could be as simple as a 20-minute HIIT workout between shopping and decorating, or hitting the gym after work but before the big dinner. Stick to your schedule as closely as you can. If one day is too packed, make it your recovery day. Remember, recovery is just as important as working out.
Most of us prefer afternoon or post-work workouts, but this can be challenging during the holidays. Gyms might close earlier, or friends might invite you out. You’ll likely need to shift your workout time, sometimes meaning you have to get up earlier than usual. It’s tough, especially in colder weather when your bed feels extra cozy, but getting your workout done early frees up the rest of your day.
Don’t fret if the gym is too far or inaccessible due to weather. You can certainly get a great workout at home with bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and burpees. These exercises offer various challenging variations and don’t require equipment.
To complement your home workout, focus on volume. This can be particularly beneficial if you normally lift heavy for just a few reps per set. Increasing your reps can help maintain your fitness level and build endurance and stamina.
Lastly, it’s inevitable to indulge in holiday treats, which can be stressful for the health-conscious among us. While it’s the season to enjoy, try to exercise some restraint. It’s wiser and more cost-effective than relying on diet pills.
By balancing enjoyment and fitness, you’ll keep your body happy and healthy. Have a great holiday season, and stay fit! Happy Holidays, everyone!
