The holiday season has arrived—bringing joy, family gatherings, and indulgent meals. But how can you maintain your fitness without living at the gym? Luckily, an expert shares five practical tips to help you stay in shape while still enjoying the festivities.
This time of year is all about celebration, gratitude, and, let’s be honest, overeating. For fitness lovers, though, it can be a challenging period that disrupts their usual workout routines. Snowstorms might shut down gyms, bad weather can cancel outdoor runs, and your go-to healthy meals might be replaced with rich holiday fare.
Add in a packed calendar of parties and late-night feasts, and your fitness goals can quickly fall by the wayside. But don’t stress—here are five effective ways to stay strong and fit during the holidays!
Start with a solid plan. Without one, you’re setting yourself up to fail. Grab a notebook and map out your holiday schedule, carving out time for workouts. Even a quick 20-minute HIIT session between gift shopping and decorating can make a difference. Try hitting the gym right after work and before that late-night Christmas dinner.
Stick to your plan as best you can. If a day gets too hectic, treat it as a recovery day—your muscles need rest too.
While most people prefer afternoon workouts, that might not work during the holidays. Gyms may close early, or friends might invite you out. Be flexible and consider morning workouts. Yes, it’s tough to leave your cozy bed in the cold, but getting your exercise done early frees up the rest of your day.
If snow and traffic make it hard to get to the gym, don’t worry—you can still get a great workout at home. Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and burpees (plus their many variations) can be just as challenging as lifting weights.
To make up for lighter resistance, increase your workout volume. If you’re used to heavy lifting with low reps, switch it up by doing more reps with bodyweight moves. This builds endurance and stamina—perfect for high-energy activities like obstacle races or long runs.
Of course, holiday treats are everywhere, and it’s unrealistic to avoid them all. While your trainer might frown at cookies and candy canes, a little moderation goes a long way. Instead of relying on diet pills, follow a few simple rules to keep your eating in check.
The holidays are about joy and gratitude, so treat your body with the same care. Stay active, eat mindfully, and you’ll thank yourself when the season ends.
Wishing you a fit and festive holiday season!
