Maintaining a consistent exercise routine during the holidays can be challenging, but it is an essential part of overall well-being and balance. Regular physical activity not only helps manage stress and maintain a healthy weight, but also improves mood, energy levels and immune function.
Tips for holiday exercises
You don’t have to completely give up your commitment to fitness during the holidays, although you may need to make a few adjustments. Try these tips to stay fit during the holidays.
Be creative
One of the keys to incorporating exercise into your holiday routine is being creative and flexible. Instead of relying solely on your typical gym routine, explore new ways to stay active that tie in with the season’s festivities. Consider taking a brisk walk with family and friends, joining a holiday-themed fitness class, or even going ice skating or sledding. Wear your tennis shoes to the mall and walk briskly between the stores to give your typical shopping boost a boost and some heart-healthy exercise. See a light exhibition for walking holidays. Find ways to enjoy the season and exercise at the same time.
Something is better than nothing
Some people give up exercising altogether during the holiday season. Their normal gym routine doesn’t fit into their busy holiday schedule, so they resign themselves to an inactive season. However, every little bit helps. If you find your schedule is particularly full during the holidays, try finding ways to schedule short bursts of activity throughout the day. Take a short break of 10-15 minutes to do some stretching or bodyweight exercises, or opt for the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. Set a reminder on your phone or watch every hour to get up and move. Research shows that taking a few minutes to do some bodyweight exercises or even just walk around can help combat the negative effects of sitting for long periods of time. Every little bit of exercise can contribute to your overall well-being and help you maintain a sense of balance during this busy time.
Have a plan
Exercise often disappears from the agenda as the holidays approach. Schedules change and routines are upended. The easiest way to exercise during the holidays is to schedule it. As you plan your week, think about ways and times you can exercise. It is important to be realistic. Set yourself up for success by setting practical goals for when and where to exercise during the holidays. If you have a plan, it will be much easier and more likely that you will actually exercise regularly.
Exercise in the morning
You will be most successful in your exercise ambitions this holiday season if you exercise first thing in the morning. Exercising in the morning sets your day up for success, giving you a sense of accomplishment that lasts the rest of the day. Getting moving in the morning also gives you the benefit of feel-good chemicals as you start your day. Plus, you don’t have to change your schedule to fit exercise into a different part of the day. You don’t have to worry all day about how to find time to exercise. Morning exercise is the best way to stay active and on track during the holidays.
Remember, it’s important to find activities that you enjoy and that fit into your vacation schedule. By making exercise a priority, you’ll not only reap the physical benefits, but you’ll also experience the mental and emotional benefits of stress relief and a better mood.
References:
https://www.silversneakers.com/blog/8-simple-ways-stay-fit-holidays/