By Amanda Wigley |Staff Writer|
Whether you like it or not, the Holidays are here. This is the time of year where we often find ourselves eating more and working out less.
Below are five tips to help you stay on track with health and fitness during the madness of the holiday season.
First, drink plenty of water. A lot of times we forget how important it is to simply drink enough water.
Let’s face it, with all the holiday parties we often find ourselves consuming more alcohol than usual.
If you up your water intake, it will benefit you in many ways.
It will help fill your stomach and make you feel full so you will eat less. It will also keep your immune system strong while the flu goes around.
I suggest getting a 64 ounce water jug and drinking it throughout the day, this will help you keep track and make sure you are drinking enough water.
Second, schedule time to exercise. Now this tip is much easier said than done. However, it is one of the most important parts of staying fit during the holidays.
“Having your workout start first thing in the morning would be the best way to stay consistent! Your chance of working out decreases if planned at the end of your day,” said Kris Zelinka, a personal trainer from Fit Athletic in San Diego.
Third, don’t overeat. Often during the holidays we find ourselves stuffing our faces uncontrollably.
A big problem is that there are so many different parties where people are offering delicious food to us.
Just be conscious about your intake. Instead of having an entire piece of pie, just have a couple bites.
“We often tend to eat more than our stomachs can handle. One of the best ways to control eating is to make sure your portion size are no bigger than the inside of your hand,” said Zelinka.
Fourth, utilize the buddy system. Whether it is your boyfriend, wife, mom or friend grab a buddy that will help you stick to your fitness goals during the holidays. Preferably someone who has the same goals as you.
You can schedule workouts together, and monitor the amount of food each other eats during the holidays.
Student James Kohler Jr. said that he and his girlfriend plan workouts together during the holidays and that helps them stay motivated. If you prefer to workout alone then keep a journal to help you stay on track.
And finally, try something new. If you have never gone on a hike or taken a spin class, now is the time to try it.
Doing a workout that you have never done before is a great way to work different areas of your body.
Changing up your workout routine will keep your body guessing while giving your same old workout routine a boost.
Remember, don’t beat yourself up if you miss a workout or eat that extra piece of pie.
Make realistic goals that you can stick to and don’t give up, this will help you fight the holiday bulge.