How to stay fit during the holidays
The holiday season is filled with delicious food, family gatherings, and plenty of opportunities to relax. But with all the celebrations, it’s easy to let your fitness routine slide. However, staying fit during the holidays is entirely possible with a little planning and commitment. Here are some simple strategies to keep you on track:
Establish a fitness goal that you will stick to
Instead of aiming for fat loss, focus on a fitness goal. For example, we recommend committing to a realistic exercise frequency, such as 2 or 3 gym strength sessions per week. This will help you stay accountable to your fitness goal during a season that can be overwhelming.
Prioritize sleep
Studies have shown that poor sleep quality leads to a higher body fat percentage. The reason is that our appetite-inducing hormones become dysregulated, causing us to feel hungrier and have a bigger appetite. Additionally, let's not forget the emotional instability that comes from a lack of sleep, which can lead some to consume more calories. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help regulate your hunger hormones, improve recovery, boost energy, and maintain mental stability during this holiday season.:D
Make healthy food choices, yet don’t deprive yourself
While we want you to fill your plate primarily with lean proteins, vegetables, and carbs, it is still 100% acceptable to enjoy holiday treats too! A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association (JADA) has shown that dietary restriction can lead to binge eating once food becomes available. So, it’s important to portion your plate appropriately while also practicing moderation with your favorite holiday treats!
Get moving
Get outside and move your body! Whether it’s in a dance class or with your family after a holiday meal, it’s important to rev up your metabolism and stay active during the holidays!
Identify yourself as the fitter version
Staying fit during the holidays isn’t just about getting stronger in the gym; it’s a mindset tied to the identity you want to embody. What does this look like? Start envisioning yourself as the fitter person you aspire to be. How do they think? How often do they move? This could look like going on a holiday walk after eating and getting the whole family involved. Maybe it’s going on a 10-minute jog every day, followed by a brisk 30-minute nature walk. Whatever you choose to do, it starts with a vision of who you desire to be and the commitments you will keep to yourself, even during the holiday season!
The bottom line
The holidays don’t have to derail your fitness goals. With a little planning, commitment, and flexibility, you can stay active, eat mindfully, and maintain a healthy routine while still enjoying the season. By focusing on small, achievable goals and staying consistent, you’ll enter the new year feeling strong and energized!
