It’s no secret that January is a big month for the fitness industry, just like it’s no secret that December is such an off month when it comes to fitness goals and maintaining healthy routines– but it doesn’t have to be. Here are 5 ways to stay lean during the holiday season.
Eat until 80 percent full
It’s funny, when I hear people say, “I went to a buffet, so I had to eat so much” as if they had no choice. Same goes for Christmas gatherings.
Yes there will be food, yes you should enjoy yourself, however, just because there is excess food doesn’t mean you must eat until you pass out.
2 Pro tips: First, don’t show up starving (unless you’re in a do or die last meal situation it’s okay to take food home or eat until your 80 percent full), and second: although, I do not condone lying as a habit, “I’d love to, but my stomach has been more sensitive as of late”, is an easy way to say no to alcohol without feeling pressured…
Round off your plate
With lots of variety when it comes to Christmas dinners, let’s face it– turkey, stuffing, and gravy are often the main attractions.
While still enjoying some of your favorite holiday meals, instead of a mountain of the former, why not aim to make your plate more colorful, healthy, and still delicious by rounding it off with some of the healthier options available?
So, make sure to say yes to the roasted veggies and salads– not just the more savory options…
Make time for your workouts
Yes, there is a lot going on during the holidays, family gatherings, work parties, and more– finding time to workout can be a challenge– if you do not plan ahead.
Going to the gym early and often is a great way to keep your metabolism working harder for you and maintain your energy, weight, and feel better throughout the holiday season. Do not wait until after your gatherings to go workout– 90 percent chance it doesn’t happen. Go before.
Sidenote: If you’ve booked a trip, guess what? most places, cruises, hotels are equipped with great gyms. You don’t have to spend all day in them, but you will feel better for it (and hey, maybe you’ll meet someone special there)
Clean up your alcohol
Don’t drink your calories– you’ve probably heard that somewhere before. The holiday season is an easy time to do the opposite.
I’m not saying not to enjoy yourself, I’m saying that on top of the excess holiday meals and social gatherings– adding in beer, wine, and non alcoholic drinks topped with chocolate shaving and whip cream can easily add up to excess weight, money spent, and feelings of overall fatigue.
Lots of water, cleaner options such as gin n tonics, and if you have 3 outings in 1 week-– maybe giving yourself more lenience on 1 outing to indulge rather than all 3 so you can stay more on track with your fitness goals throughout…
Be kind to yourself
When it comes to your fitness goals, like many other aspects in life– it’s all eps and flows. Some weeks you will be on fire, while others you are just trying to keep your head above water.
If you read this article, stay mindful of your workouts and nutrition, have great intentions– and all aspects of your healthy routines go to shit– it’s okay to feel bad, just don’t get stuck and wallow for too long. Be kind to yourself. Be forgiving to yourself .
Closing:
No matter what happens, remember that life goes on after December so just get back on the horse and back to your healthy self come January 2023…