The Christmas period is fun but can be highly stressful. With last minute shopping, increased traffic, rushing to finish work – the negatives vs multiple late nights with alcohol and the office becoming a mecca for chocolate and mince pies, there’s a lot to consider.
Take a moment to think about the effect this has on your body internally. You cut workouts. You feel tired and your healthy eating habits slip.
It doesn’t have to be like this. We’ve put together ten simple tactics you can use to limit the effect the over indulgence has on your health and lifestyle:
- Try to work towards your work party as a target. Rather than throwing the towel in at the beginning of December, try and resist some of the temptation in the days leading up to this busy month.
- Alternate your drinks with some water (sounds boring so just make out that its Gin – nobody needs to know) this will help with the quantity of alcohol that you consume, the hangover and take some of the load off your liver
- Earn your food! If you’re going out, schedule in a pre-party workout
- Get on the dance floor. Dancing is a great way to burn calories and have fun
- Be mindful of what you’re eating! Parties usually have a pile of fried and processed foods. Try and get some green on your plate
- Don’t go to the party hungry! Have something to reduce the urge of attacking a buffet like an animal as soon as your smell pastries
- Avoid eating at your work desk. Building a habit of eating naughty treats in your work space isn’t good. It can lead to a feeling of hunger and trigger hunger thoughts whilst you’re working. Don’t be the secret eater… at least walk across the room!
- Increase your daily movement and activity to counter some of the naughty treats. If you don’t already have one then ask father Christmas for a watch that counts your steps. These are great for personal accountability, motivation and goal setting. Check out “Which Fitness Tracker is best for you” for some help and guidance. (Ruth add link when it goes live)
- Go shopping instead of ordering everything online. The economy could really do with your help right now! and the walking is beneficial to your health
- Keep your workout clothes at work or with you at all times. Take any opportunity you can for an impromptu walk, 30-minute session or call in at the gym on the way home. By having your kit to hand you are prepared and have removed any barrier to exercise – always prepared!
Most of all, embrace the festive spirit. Enjoy time with friends and family and take some time out, but being able to stay on track over the Christmas holiday will help you stay strong during other busy periods in your life. Happy Christmas from all of us at Anytime Fitness!
