Holiday Survival Guide

Dec 20, 2021

 by Hannah Bouldin

HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE

1. Set realistic goals for the season. Look at the calendar and plan workouts accordingly, taking travel and gatherings into consideration, if you're traveling. While these goals may not be the same as goals after the holiday season, they are a great way to help keep some kind of routine. Plan workouts at least a week in advance.

2.Schedule a workout or two with friends or loved ones. This doesn't have to occur in person. I've been scheduling walks/runs with my mom and sister since March. We talk on the phone (thank you, AirPods!) and do this at least 3x/week. Scheduling with another person helps with accountability. This is one of the things that really keeps me going during the tough times.

3. Taking one day at a time is helpful in that you just have to focus on that day. Remember how you feel after a workout. Have you ever regretted a workout? There are definitely times I don't feel like working out. I may even dread it! But I have never regretted a workout and the feeling of accomplishment I get after I am done is priceless. If you don't have time for the full workout, commit to 10 minutes. Get dressed, get moving...your brain and body will thank you!

4. Try a new workout class. This year we have so many Zoom options, which keeps us safe from COVID and helps build our immune systems. Mixing things up is a great way to keep motivated. The same old workout day after day can get boring and monotonous. Many fitness studios offer guest passes or trial memberships for those who are just visiting the area or want to try the establishment out before signing up. Take advantage of those. Even better? Get a group of friends or family members together on Zoom to take a fitness class! PS - Want to take one of our Zoom Group Fitness Classes on the house? Comment "Zoom Me Up" and I'll get you all set up.

5. Move, walk, dance, etc. Some exercise is better than no exercise. Head out after the big meal for a walk. Schedule a walking tour of the neighborhood Christmas lights. No time to workout? Get up just 30 minutes earlier and fit something in. My mental state is so much better once those endorphins are running through my body, even if it is only 10 minutes. 

6. Eat. Enjoy the holiday meal and all of the things that go along with it and then move on. Many foods are only served this time of the year, so I try to focus on my favorites and leave the foods I can eat any day of the year. Try not to skip meals leading up to the big meal - this will leave you hungry and more likely to overeat. 

7. Drink plenty of water. A shake up in routine may make it harder to stay properly hydrated. I try to keep a bottle of water with me at all times as a reminder to drink up. This is especially important when having a cocktail.

8.Enjoy spending time with friends and family, even if it looks different this year. Our family is scheduling a Zoom call on Thanksgiving afternoon to get our family fix. You could even have everyone do the post-holiday meal walk together on the phone. It's so much better when you can get everyone active together.

9. Listen to your body. Are you stressed? A brisk walk is a great way to relieve stress!  Hungry? Eat a healthy snack to keep your metabolism going. Full? Save dessert for later in the day. Tired? Steal a few minutes to rest before the big event. Pay attention to the cues your body gives you and act on them. 

10. Be thankful for your body, for your friends and family, for the roof over your head, and the food on your table. Nothing gets me out of a funk quicker than taking some time to think about the good things I have in my life.