How to Stay Fit-Focused Through the Holidays

Thanksgiving is in the rearview mirror, and Christmas and New Year’s are on the horizon. For some of us, this time of year brings an abundance of indulgence and over-indulgence. Food is everywhere, from cozy kitchens to office breakrooms. Time off consists of lounging on the couch and kicking back with family and friends…usually involving more food!

There is a reason why gym memberships skyrocket on January 2nd! We basically give ourselves permission to “enjoy” November 1st through January 1st, and face the consequences later.

But you have goals, and they do not include doing double work to make up for a month, or two, off. So, how do you actually manage to get through the holidays without turning into an extremist and denying yourself all the delights of the season? Glad you asked!

EVERYTHING IN MODERATION

First of all, if you happen to find an extra cookie in your hand at the office holiday party, or take several lazy days to watch that binge-worthy Netflix series, it’s okay! I promise you will be fine! Say it with me, I-will-be-fine!

The key to enjoying your favorite foods, or relaxing, is to do it in moderation. One or two extra cookies are okay—not the entire pack. Maybe sprinkle some protein powder in the batter you’re baking with the kids. Don’t go beyond two, maybe three, days off from the gym. Put yourself on a two-drink minimum and bring your dancing shoes so you can be active while having fun!

ACCOUNTABILITY

If you have an accountability partner, make sure you stay in touch during this time. Come up with a game plan when you feel tempted or fall off-the-wagon. If you don’t have an accountability partner, it may be a good time to choose someone who can offer some extra support and encouragement.

Generally, we want to do better when we know someone else is counting on us. If that person also happens to be a workout partner, a little healthy competition could be just what you need to stay focused.

KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS

I’m big on thinking ahead and pre-planning. If you already know your triggers, you can get your mind right when they inevitably come up.

For me, I have the HUGE sweet tooth and any kind of baked goods are guaranteed to start the internal war. I KNOW this is a major struggle for me in general but especially during the holidays so if there are sweets around, I will allow myself to sample but not overdo it. This usually happens at work [because I don’t buy/store sweets in my house] where people bring in all kinds of desserts and candy. I give myself a two-cookie maximum or divide a slice of [insert delicious treat here] into a smaller portion. If I go over these limits, I know I’ve over-indulged.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

Guys, I KNOW this is easier said than done. It’s something I also struggle with, but it really is the key to staying focused on your fitness goals. If you usually workout five days a week, maybe you can only do three days realistically when holiday functions and family fun increase. Guess what, adjusting to three days—and staying committing to that—is still being consistent!

Try not to be too hard on yourself. Have a happy and healthy holiday season. Xoxo–Maya