If you're already into fitness, or just getting started, the holiday season poses its challenges. Not only are you confronted with sweet treats on a weekly (if not daily) basis, you're schedule becomes more hectic as you try to schedule trips, tend to relatives, buy gifts, etc. Though holiday fitness is challenging, it is only a barrier if you allow it to be.
Tips if you're already in a fitness program:
Don't quit: Let's face it, there is a lot going on during the holidays that can throw you off track. However, that does not mean you have to quit altogether. If you miss a workout one day, reschedule it. If the boss throws in a last minute meeting during the time you were going to go workout, make-up for it by coming in at a different time and/or another day. When you're used to getting three sessions in, don't throw in the towel if you are only able to get two in this week. As a matter of fact, you should adapt and overcome. Just reschedule for a different day. Do a make up day. There is no reason to put your health and fitness goals on hold because it's the holidays. If anything, you should have an extra day or two off from work that will allow you to make up the days you missed or add an extra day.
Remember why you're doing it: What matters is that you keep moving forward. Getting fit and losing weight are lifetime goals. Remember that one of the reasons you exercise is to also "beat up" some stress. This is especially true during the holidays.
Consistency. If you have an "all or nothing" attitude, be very careful as you may be setting yourself up for failure. Keep doing what you know you need to do and don't let anyone stand in your way.
Tips if you're not in a fitness program:
Procrastinate no more: Starting a program in December can be just as good as January. You may find that it can be a great month to get started if you have a few days off. You know as well as I do, you are just as likely to push it off in December as you would March. There is always a reason not to do something, you need to focus on why you should (such as health, avoid weight gain during the holidays, etc.).
Start your search: If you're not going to start in December and you really want to get going, then you need to at least prepare yourself. Look into what you're going to do and where. Be sure it's not a dogmatic, quick-fix/gimmick program, but something that will work long-term (of course Fitness Together).
Set a date: At least schedule when you're going to get started and stick to it. Setting a goal to get started is more important than the goal itself. Obviously, if you don't get started, you'll never reach the goal, albeit weight loss, decreased blood pressure, etc.
Have a great Holiday Season and Stay Motivated!
written by:
Kelly Huggins, A-CPT
Exercise Science, B.S.
Fitness Together - Fitness/Nutrition Coach
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