5 ESSENTIAL HOLIDAY FITNESS TIPS
Did you know that the average American gains anywhere from 5 lbs. to 12 lbs. between Thanksgiving and New Year’s?
The following are 5 Holiday Fitness Tips to help you minimize setbacks and stay on track with your fitness goals.
1. Schedule Your Workouts Ahead Of Time
As busy and as stressful as the holidays are, it is very important to maintain some sort of physical activity. If not having enough time becomes a problem, go for shorter duration, higher intensity workouts such as intervals, HIIT, circuit training. A 20-30 minute total body workout is a lot better than NOTHING at all. Short duration, high-intensity workouts can create a caloric after burn known as EPOC (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption) which allows your body to continue burning calories up to 24 hours after your workout is over.
2. Don’t Starve Yourself In Anticipation Of The Big Meal.
Holding off for that big meal will most likely cause you to overeat. Have something light but high-protein and filling like eggs for breakfast, chicken, salmon, etc... Then, when it’s time for the big meal, start with a side salad before you dive into the main course.
3. Don’t Save Unhealthy Leftovers.
Stock up on the leftover protein and veggies!!! Send everything else home with your guests. You don’t need to be eating Christmas Eve dinner five days in a row. Out of sight, out of mind!
4. Stick To Low-Calorie Drinks.
Most alcohol holds little to NO nutritional value besides sugar and empty calories. Be mindful of holiday drinks, most have a ton of extra calories from sugars, syrups, and creams. Your best low-calorie option is to go with liquor (whiskey, vodka, tequila, brandy, gin, etc.) on the rocks or with a zero-calorie mixer like club soda or diet soda. If that’s not your thing then go with wine or light beer. And ALWAYS remember to drink water too!!
5. Try Mindful Eating.
Fit everything in the main course onto one plate including dessert. Give yourself a 15-20 minute break after finishing this plate before deciding whether or not to eat more. It takes this long for your brain and stomach to register feelings of fullness.
The holidays are about spending quality time with loved ones, friends, showing gratitude, and helping others. Although our schedules might be a little different, it’s not an excuse to ditch your fitness routine and fall off track. Be safe, stay active, enjoy some good food, maybe a few adult beverages, and have a happy and healthy Holiday.
