5 Secrets to Staying Fit During the Holidays – Holiday Fitness Tips
‘Tis the season for fun, festivities, and extra time with friends and family. It’s almost inevitable that your regular health and fitness routine will take the backseat during this season of cheer. But keeping on track with fitness during the holiday season doesn’t mean giving up all the indulgences, and keeping active is well worth it. Here are five holiday fitness secrets to help make the holiday season healthier for your body.
#1 Plan Ahead
With all of the holiday season festivities, it can be hard to fit everything in. Being intentional about keeping active is key to ensuring you stay fit throughout the holiday chaos. Just like you make time for festive gatherings, make time for workouts and physical activities by making it a priority on your schedule. You might add your workout plan or scheduled fitness classes to your calendar. This way you can keep track of your activities and ensure that you make the time needed for your health.
#2 Make Friends with Winter Weather
Sometimes winter weather can hinder your motivation to keep up with fitness. But what if the weather can help you keep fit? Winter weather can be the perfect opportunity to try out a new winter weather activity like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or ice skating.
If active snowfall keeps you on the couch, getting outside to shovel snow for family, friends, or aging neighbors can be a great way to spread holiday cheer and a wonderful workout. Just make sure to take proper precautions before shoveling snow to avoid common winter weather injuries.
#3 Say NO To Stocking Stuffers
In the season of gift-giving, we love to shower loved ones with gifts and treats. You might also receive a copious amount of treats yourself. This often includes candy, chocolates, or other surgery foods that can have you feeling sluggish. Plus, this added sugar can throw you off a healthy diet and contribute to holiday weight gain. While it’s important to enjoy the season, make sure to say “no” to the copious amounts of extra treats you may encounter during the holidays. Being aware of the added sugar can free you up to enjoy yourself during decadent holiday meals and fun parties.
#4 Involve the Family
You’ll likely spend more time with your family than you do in your routine. This could throw you off of your fitness plans, but it can also be an opportunity to involve your family in your fitness. It can be a great way to bond while also keeping on track with your health. Sign up for a group fitness class, seek out new walking trails, or join a holiday charity run/walk event. Even walking around the neighborhood with your family can be a great way to spend time with one another while keeping your body moving. You might even make a few new holiday traditions along the way.
#5 Be Realistic
With the added responsibilities and social engagements that come with the holiday season, you will likely have less free time. While fitness is vital to your quality of life, so is rest. Be realistic with your expectations of yourself regarding the amount of time and energy you will have for fitness. You may need to cut a workout short or skip one altogether. Remember that a shorter workout is better than no workout at all. And while you should commit to making fitness a priority, don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a workout or need time for rest.
If you find yourself experiencing an orthopedic injury or setback this holiday season, rest assured that the Orthopaedic Hospital of Wisconsin is here to help you get back to your full health. Don’t suffer through the season. Reach out today! Make an appointment online or call (414) 961-6800.