Like it or not — here come the holidays. Sticking to your exercise program can be extremely challenging during this time. It is so easy to miss a workout when you are busy with family, friends, and festivities. Although we have several weeks before the holidays begin, now is the time to plan! If you are prepared with some strategies you can avoid gaining weight and stick to your workouts.
Plan ahead
The most difficult part of an exercise program is not the exercising itself, but the planning. Planning ahead of time to fit exercise into your day will help you to be successful and compliant. Acknowledge that the holiday season will probably affect your exercise routine. This way you can calmly make adjustments when necessary. During this time of year consider removing something from your schedule instead of trying to squeeze exercise in. For example, instead of an office party or a manicure, plan for a 30 minute workout. Set out your exercise clothes ahead of time so you don’t have to get them together at the last minute. Put exercise on your “to do” list most days of the week. Whether or not you already have well-established exercise habits, be sure to make exercise a priority in your daily life.
Be realistic
Keep in mind that most people eat more than usual during the holidays. However you don’t have to indulge everyday. Minimizing when you indulge and sticking with your exercise regimen can help to keep you in check. Be flexible when your days get busy by mixing up your routine. If you have obligations that will interfere with your regular schedule, try to wake up an hour earlier to do a quick 20-30 minute workout. Also, keep in mind that you don’t have to over do it with hour long exercise sessions. Exercising for 20-30 minutes with an elevated heart rate (swimming, jogging, kickboxing) most days of the week should keep your metabolism humming.
Professional
Give yourself a gift this holiday season and hire a personal trainer. A trainer will have the expertise to guide you through the most effective workouts while keeping you motivated. Many trainers have reasonable package deals and holiday specials. Just make sure that your trainer has a respected certification such as ACE, ACSM, or NASM to name a few.
Try Something New
Instead of blowing off your workout — try something new. There are many ways to get into shape. Kickboxing, team sports, swimming and power yoga are all great ways to burn calories. You can try walking briskly during half of your lunch break as well. You may be surprised at how good it makes you feel. If the weather is bad and you cannot get out — try an exercise video. Exercise videos can be very effective and can be done in the privacy of your own home or office.
Keep a Journal
Keeping an exercise journal can help you to stay motivated and organized. You are more likely stick to your workouts if you make daily journal entries and follow through with them. You can set goals for yourself each day or once a week. When you accomplish your goals, it will motivate you to continue and progress with your fitness plan and may even reduce your desire to over-indulge.
Keep in mind that during the busy holiday season nobody is perfect. There are going to be temptations and erratic schedules for everyone. If you exercise most days and indulge in moderation, you will do great! This way you will be able to enjoy yourself while staying healthy. After all, that’s what the holiday season is all about!
