The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be tough for even the fittest folks. Cooler weather makes working out more difficult, and getting caught up in the hype of the holidays makes putting off a workout even easier. If you're ready to stick to your plan — and to not make getting fit your New Year's resolution for yet another year — then practice these tips.
It's Not a Cheat Month
Even though there's plenty of fun to be had, you've got to set
limitations with yourself. Even though people crave comfort food
during the Winter, you've got to continue
to make healthy choices all December long. Plan ahead when you know you'll be
indulging. And be sure to appropriately indulge so you don't end up binging on
a big plate of Christmas cookies!
Register For a Race
When you know that you've got a race on the horizon, you've got
to train — there's no other option. Gift yourself a race from Active.com,
and create a training plan that you can stick to. After all those long runs,
you'll feel so much better about those holiday treats.
Grab a Friend
When you're trying to focus on exercise and nutrition, that
doesn't mean you have to skip out on seeing your friends. There are plenty of benefits to having a
workout buddy, but it's especially
helpful during a busy season. You'll be less likely to bail if it will mean
letting down someone you love.
Pencil It In
If you want to make time for a workout, then you've got to put
it in your schedule. Without making the commitment to yourself, it's far too
easy to put it off in order to do something else. Add a reminder in your office
email, jot it down in your planner — whatever you have to do to make it work.
Back Off That Booze
It's easy to get ahead of yourself at a holiday party. You're in
the spirit of the season and knocking back a few drinks; you aren't necessarily
paying attention to the amount of alcohol you've imbibed. In addition to
keeping your mental clarity in check, cutting back on booze will help you feel
less bloated and stick to your workouts.
If giving up all the alcohol isn't an option, then consider water-backing. After each alcoholic libation you consume, back it with an
8-ounce glass of good old H2O. Drinking booze dehydrates your system, and
drinking water helps your body recuperate faster.
Practice Portion Control
Healthy portion control is always important, and something as
simple as a plate can help or hinder a healthy eating plan. Instead of looking
for the biggest plate at the event, choose a salad or a dessert plate. Studies
have proven that using a smaller plate helps
with weight loss. Even at a big event,
start off with something lighter at the beginning, like soup or salad.
Grab a New DVD
With the colder, wet weather, it's difficult to leave the
comfort of your warm home. If you find yourself staying in time and time again,
add a new DVD to your workout repertoire. And choose something you'll actually
use!
Rest Up
Studies show that people who get adequate amounts of sleep weigh
less (and eat less) than those who are sleep-deprived, so make sure you get at
least seven hours a night — especially when you're tired. Listening to your body is key in preventing sickness. There's nothing
worse than having to cancel fun holiday plans because you've been running on
empty for too long.
