The festive season is typically a time of overindulgence and lack of routine and a time when people gain an average of 6 to 10 pounds. Then New Year’s resolutions are made to lose that extra weight, and the start of the year is spent slogging it out at the gym.
It’s a cycle that could well be avoided with a little extra care over the holiday season. I’m not going to tell you to choose carrot sticks over candy canes, although being mindful with your food intake is a wise idea. I am going to encourage you to keep moving your body. It feels good, and is what your body is designed to do.
Set aside three to four 20-minute time slots over the course of the week to move. You don’t need to spend an hour at the gym or an hour running. Keeping workouts short and simple will allow you to attend all your social engagements without forgoing exercise.
If this still seems like too much amid all the holiday events, remember that committing to exercise now will save you a lot of time in the long run.
Choose six of the exercises below and then do them three times each. It’s that simple.
Change your lineup as often as you like, or do exactly the same thing each session. Pick a range of exercises that will work different areas of your body, including your legs, arms, back, chest, shoulders, and stomach.
Also mix it up between strength and cardio movements.
Two Holiday Fitness Tips
Go for short walks in the open air to stay energized during the holidays.
Drink lots of water to flush out toxin buildup from increased intake of alcohol and fatty, sugary foods.
Enjoy the holiday spirit without gaining the extra pounds.
Emma-Kate Stampton certifies Pilates instructors and is a certified personal trainer. With 12 years of industry experience, she is passionate about sharing the gift of health and well-being. Emma-Kate is based in Brisbane, Australia.
All photos by Willis Lim/Brisbane Australia.
Fitness model is Alana Ford.
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