The holidays are here! It’s time for friends, family, and food. But how can you keep up with your fitness routine this season? No one wants to constantly hit the gym during the holidays, right? Here are some simple tips from an expert to stay fit during the festive season.

First, make a plan. It’s essential to schedule your holiday activities and find an hour or two for your workouts. You could do a quick 20-minute HIIT session between shopping and decorating or visit the gym right after work and before a late dinner. Stick to your plan, and if one day is too packed, make it your recovery day. Rest is crucial for your muscles, so don’t feel guilty.

Avoid working out in the afternoon during the holidays because gyms might close earlier, or social plans might get in the way. Instead, change your routine temporarily and work out in the morning. Yes, getting up early in colder weather is tough, but finishing your workout early leaves the rest of the day free for other activities.

If you usually drive to the gym and bad weather makes travel tricky, consider staying home and doing bodyweight exercises. Push-ups, squats, and burpees are all effective, and their many variations can be even more challenging than weights.

Also, focus on volume training if you can’t lift heavy. Instead of your usual 3-rep sets with a barbell, do more reps to build endurance and stamina. This approach is also great for preparing for physically demanding activities like Crossfit or endurance events.

When it comes to food, remember it’s okay to indulge a little, but don’t go overboard. Avoid the stress of trying to skip all treats. Instead, practice moderation. While diet pills are an option, it’s smarter and cheaper to eat mindfully.

Enjoy the holiday season while keeping your body happy and healthy. Stay fit and have a wonderful holiday!