It’s that time of year again, where twinkling lights, festive music, and delicious treats are around every corner. But before you start thinking about tossing your health goals out the window until January, let’s chat about how to keep the holiday spirit alive while still crushing your fitness and nutrition game. Here are 10 tips to help get you through the most challenging time of year when it comes to nutrition and fitness.
1: Plan Your Strategy
The holiday season is a marathon, not a sprint. To succeed, you need a plan. Don’t wait until January 1st to make resolutions. Start now! Plot your path to navigate the tempting smorgasbord of holiday treats.
Remember, preparation is key. Eat a healthy meal before you hit the holiday party circuit, so you won’t dive headfirst into the cheese dip. Prioritizing protein in your meals ahead of time will help!
2: Make Smart Choices
Sure, those gingerbread cookies and candy canes are tempting, but don’t forget about the healthier options. Opt for veggie platters, lean proteins, and fruit trays. And for your sweet tooth, look for lower-calorie desserts or try making some healthy holiday treats at home.
3: Portion Control
It’s easy to get carried away when the buffet is a winter wonderland of delights. But exercise some self-control and keep portions in check. Pile your plate with veggies and lean proteins first, then indulge in a small portion of your favorite holiday treat.
4: Stay Active
Just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean you should hibernate on the couch until January. We understand this time of year can be hectic, but making time for physical activity is crucial for your success. Join a winter 5k, go ice skating with friends, pick up a new active hobby like running or pickleball, or simply take a brisk walk after dinner to help you burn off those extra calories. And, if you’re in need of a fantastic gym to keep you on track, remember that Verve Fitness offers a range of classes to help you stay active during the holiday season!
5: Stay Hydrated
With all the festive drinks and alcoholic beverages, it’s crucial to keep yourself hydrated. Not only does water help control your appetite, but it also aids in digestion, which can be a lifesaver when you’re indulging in rich holiday foods.
6: Enjoy the Moment
The holiday season is more than just food. It’s about spending quality time with loved ones and creating memories. Focus on the joy of the season, and remember that indulging a bit is perfectly fine. The key is to find balance.
7: Accountability Partner
Share your goals with a friend or family member and keep each other accountable. You can encourage one another to make healthy choices, and it’s more fun when you have someone to share your fitness and nutrition journey with during the holidays.
8: Don’t Beat Yourself Up
If you do overindulge one day, don’t let it ruin your entire holiday season. Just get back on track with your next meal or workout. Guilt-tripping won’t help you reach your goals any faster (and can actually slow you down).
9: Set Realistic Goals
Be realistic about your goals during the holidays. It’s okay to maintain your current weight rather than striving for major gains during this time. A little moderation can go a long way.
10: Get Creative
Cooking up healthy, delicious holiday dishes can be a fun challenge. Experiment with new recipes that cut down on calories but not on flavor. Share your culinary creations with friends and family; they might not even notice they’re enjoying a healthier meal.
The holiday season is a wonderful time to enjoy great food and make lasting memories. Don’t wait for the New Year to start your fitness and nutrition journey; you can start right now. So, strategize, keep moving, and enjoy the season. Remember, with a bit of balance, you can have your gingerbread and eat it, too! Cheers to a healthy and joyful holiday season.