Stay Fit This Holiday Season: 5 Essential Tips for Your Exercise Routine

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and often a few tempting treats. While it’s easy to let your fitness routine take a backseat amid the festivities, staying active is essential for your physical and mental health.

In fact, research shows that maintaining your exercise routine during this period can help prevent the average weight gain of 1-5 pounds that many people experience during the holidays.

Not to mention the mental health benefits it also brings!

Here are five essential tips to ensure you stay fit and energized through the season.

1. Set Realistic Goals

As the holiday season approaches, take the time to set achievable fitness goals. Instead of trying to completely transform your routine, focus on maintaining your current fitness levels. This keeps you motivated without feeling overwhelmed.

For instance, consider creating a flexible schedule that includes shorter workouts. Create backup times or days in case something arises that causes you to cancel your regularly scheduled workout.

If you have family gatherings planned, consider proposing a group walk or other activities that can get everyone moving together. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, as recommended by the CDC.

This can be achieved by committing to 30 minutes (or two 15-minute sessions) five times a week, making it more manageable to fit into your holiday schedule.

2. Prioritize Your Workouts

Finding time for exercise can be challenging with holiday parties and family gatherings. Combat this by treating your workouts as essential appointments. Schedule them into your calendar just like you would for work meetings or doctor's appointments.

Try to carve out specific times each week for your fitness routine. Whether you prefer a morning jog, a midday strength training session, or an evening yoga practice, setting aside time for these activities can significantly enhance your commitment. Studies show that people who schedule their workouts are more likely to stick to them.

3. Get Creative with Your Workouts

Even if your usual workout routine is disrupted, you can still stay active. Embrace creativity by trying new activities that harmonize with the holiday spirit.

Join a holiday-themed dance class or take a winter hike to relish the seasonal beauty. Instead of traditional weights, use household items such as water bottles or backpacks filled with books for resistance training.

If you have limited space at home, bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks can be practical alternatives. Aim for at least two to three strength workouts per week to maintain muscle mass during this period.

You can always schedule a private Zoom Pilates workout with me here!

4. Find a Workout Buddy

Staying motivated is often easier with a workout buddy. Find a friend or family member who shares your fitness ambitions and hold each other accountable. Research shows that working out with a partner can increase your adherence to exercise by up to 50%.

Exercising together can make your workouts more enjoyable and help you push through those moments of holiday temptation. Set mutual goals and celebrate small achievements to maintain enthusiasm, even as the festivities unfold.

You can always schedule a private Zoom Pilates Duet workout with your buddy here!

5. Embrace the Holiday Spirit

Finally, don't forget to embrace the holiday spirit while you stay fit. Infuse fun and festive elements into your workouts to keep them enjoyable and engaging.

I'm a sucker for Christmas music. Nothing gets me in the mood more than Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You." I can't help it! Consider creating a holiday-themed playlist that features your favorite seasonal songs to keep you energized.

Participate in local charity runs or walks that not only keep you active but also support meaningful causes. These events often serve as a source of motivation, encouraging you to continue moving forward while contributing to your community.

Staying Fit While Celebrating

Maintaining your fitness during the holiday season can be rewarding and enjoyable. By setting realistic goals, prioritizing workouts, getting creative, finding workout buddies, and incorporating holiday-themed elements, you can stick to your routine and celebrate all the festivities.

Remember, balance is key. So, lace up those sneakers, crank up your favorite holiday tunes, and keep moving this season!