- When the holiday season arrives, it's time to let your hair down. Staff parties are in full swing; loved ones are home for a few weeks, and you will consume a lot of food. Unfortunately, that also leaves room for late mornings and a lack of exercise.
You don't want to give up on your fitness goals because the holidays are here. But you also want to participate because it's the one time each year when you can relax a little bit. However, you can still enjoy this season while being mindful of your goals, and we'll provide a few tips on how you can do so.
1. Plan Around Your Binges
If it's one thing you should get into your head right now is that you will eat plenty of food during the holidays. That is a given; you'll be around many loved ones during this period, and most of the meetups involve food. But you can plan around your binges. For example, if you're going to a dinner party, plan ahead by doing a workout the day before so you don't feel too bad about indulging.
If you can't do it before, squeeze it in the day after to eliminate some toxins. Then ensure to take some protein powder to gain the full effects of your workout. It will be challenging since you'll be tired and full; again, prioritizing fitness is crucial, and with some planning, you'll be able to stay on track.
2. Know Your Priorities
When you know a big holiday is coming up, excuses seem to fall out of the stratosphere. For some reason, that same motivation to workout is no longer there. You only want to sit around the house, binge-watch your favorite shows and food, and kick your feet up.
The problem with that is you'll start to pack on the pounds without a moment's notice. That's why it's essential to prioritize your fitness. Stick to the plan you’ve created, so your fitness isn't affected too much when the holidays roll around. Furthermore, you don't have to make a big workout plan; do a few simple activities, such as riding a bike, doing yoga, or going for a walk.
3. Limit Alcohol
Besides food, the holiday season is also known for the high consumption of alcohol. Plenty of booze will be available at those dinner parties and family gatherings you attend. Of course, the aim is always to drink responsibly. On the other hand, you know how it gets when you're around people you haven't seen in a while. Drinks start flowing, and you'll have quite the buzz before you know it.
When alcohol isn't drunk in moderation, you'll likely feel the effects [mfn]https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/effects-on-body[/mfn] of a wonderful hangover the next day. You'll lack energy and alertness, further compromising your fitness goals. Yes, drinks will be in your face wherever you go during the holiday season. And no one is saying not to drink anything.
The key is to limit your intake. Try setting a marker that you can't go past, maybe two or three drinks. You'll still have a great time without having to worry about facing a hangover the next day. Plus, you'll still be able to stay on track with your fitness goals without worrying too much about the extra alcoholic calories.
4. Stay Hydrated
With the amount of food and alcohol you consume during the holidays, your body will be in for a surprise. To rid your body of toxins, it's essential to stay hydrated [mfn]https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html[/mfn]. Water gives your body some of the fuel it needs to complete daily tasks. It also makes it easier to limit the effects of alcohol.
However, water can be hard to drink since there's no taste. To make it more enjoyable, add some flavorings to it. Or, if you want to be healthy with your water intake, try adding cucumbers or lemons to your water. Whether you drink water with or without flavor, it can help you get through this holiday season on a healthy note.
5. Find a Workout Buddy
Working out alone can be daunting, even more so during the holidays. You already don't want to, but you're putting yourself through it to maintain your physique. As the days go on, you lack the motivation to continue your exercise regimen.
This is the ideal time to find a workout partner. Having someone by your side can keep you motivated when you don't want to exercise. Furthermore, you can hold each other accountable for your personal goals.
Use These Tips to Stick To Your Fitness Goals
The holidays will test your willpower because excessive food and drinks will be available. But if you're serious about your fitness goals, try incorporating the tips above to ensure you stay on track.