It’s
hard to believe 2012 is almost over, and that the Holidays are quickly
approaching. This is a great season to
connect with loved ones, take time to relax and recharge, and plan for a new
start. This time of year can also be
filled with stress. From Holiday
shopping, to traveling, to parties and events, people often wear themselves
thin. When pressed for time, the first
thing to suffer is people’s commitment to their health and fitness.
It
is no surprise that the average person gains approximately ten pounds over the
Holiday season. The one thing they fail
to realize is that gaining weight is completely preventable. Here are ten tips to help keep you on track
during this busy season.
1.
If you
fail to plan, you plan to fail. Plan
each of your workouts, and record them into your phone calendar or day timer in
advance. Do this in the same manner you
would a business meeting, holiday party, or doctor’s appointment. Once you schedule each workout, then you must
COMMIT. This is your time for your health. Remember to also include additional travel
time to get to the gym, as traffic can be extremely hectic this time of year.
2.
At a party or get-together, remember that you
have control over what you put into your body.
Just because everyone else is drinking and eating in excess, does not
mean you have to join in. It is your
choice! Indulge in moderation. Look for healthy choices at parties. Fruits, vegetables, lean meats are all good
options.
3.
Remember it’s acceptable to say “no.” If you don’t want another drink, or
appetizer, don’t allow pressure from others to allow you to give in. Saying “no” also applies to invitations to
attend events. Don’t exhaust yourself.
4.
Have a healthy snack before going out. If you arrive famished, you will give in to
cravings, or overeat.
5.
Ease up on the booze! The more you drink, the less control or
inhibition you will have over food choices.
Alcohol is also a fat-burning inhibitor, in addition to the empty calories
you are consuming. It actually blocks
your body’s ability to burn fat!
6.
You cannot out-work a bad diet. Do not rely on extra cardio or weight
training to burn off extra calories from overeating.
7.
There is no way to “save calories for
later.” If you skip breakfast in hopes
of being able to consume extra calories at a party, you are setting yourself up
for failure.
8.
Keep your gym bag in your car. There may be unplanned opportunities to
squeeze in a workout. Take them!
9.
Be mindful of your baking. What are you going to do with three dozen
holiday cookies? Make plans to give
extra baking away as gifts, and get them to friends and family as soon as
possible. Out of sight, out of mouth.
10.
Remember your goals. You have worked so hard over the past year to
be healthier, stronger, and happier.
Don’t let two months ruin all that hard work!
Have
fun, be safe, enjoy, and Happy Holidays!
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