It’s easy to slip into a “holiday mode” and find yourself spending too much time indoors, sitting on the couch and watching TV. However, this sedentary behavior can lead to weight gain. Instead of staying inactive and cooped up indoors, try to plan some outdoor activities to spend quality time with your family during the holidays. Consider organizing a picnic and a short hike, taking a walk around the neighborhood to shift the focus away from food, participating in local community holiday events, visiting local markets, or dedicating a day to shopping.
There are plenty of ways to stay active without sacrificing time with your loved ones. If going to the gym is part of your regular routine, you may need to make some adjustments during the holidays. However, this doesn’t mean you have to give up entirely. If you’re traveling, try to find a local gym nearby and plan your workouts while your family is occupied with other activities. Personally, I like to wake up early before anyone else is awake to get my training session done. This way, I can enjoy the rest of the day with my family without worrying about fitting in my workout.
Maintaining a lean body throughout the holidays can be challenging, but with some planning and discipline, it is possible. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
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Set realistic goals: Instead of aiming for weight loss during the holidays, focus on maintaining your current weight. This will help alleviate the pressure and allow you to enjoy the festivities without feeling deprived.
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Plan your meals: Before attending holiday parties or gatherings, plan your meals for the day. Include plenty of lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied and prevent overindulging in unhealthy options.
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Practice portion control: Enjoy your favorite holiday treats in moderation. Use smaller plates and bowls to control portion sizes, and savor each bite instead of mindlessly eating.
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Stay active: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Even if you can’t make it to the gym, go for a walk, do bodyweight exercises at home, or engage in active holiday activities like ice skating or dancing.
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Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help control your appetite and prevent overeating. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
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Limit alcohol consumption: Alcoholic beverages are often high in calories and can lead to overeating. Opt for lighter options like wine or spirits mixed with low-calorie mixers, and limit your intake.
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Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can disrupt your hunger hormones and lead to cravings and overeating. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support your body’s natural processes.
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Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly, savoring each bite, and stop eating when you feel satisfied, not overly full.
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Find healthy alternatives: Look for healthier versions of your favorite holiday dishes. Swap ingredients like butter for olive oil, sugar for natural sweeteners, and opt for whole grain options when possible.
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Stay consistent: Don’t let one indulgent meal or event derail your progress. Get back on track with your healthy eating and exercise routine the next day.
Remember, the holidays are meant to be enjoyed, so allow yourself to indulge in moderation and focus on spending quality time with loved ones.