Well, we’re almost to the finish line of 2020, Mudder Nation. For better or worse, we’ve made is through what has been a weird and unexpected year. Thanksgiving marks another holiday past and another month closer to 2021.
And while there are fewer holiday parties and treats in the break room this year, there’s still the temptation to indulge and embrace that holiday bulge.
To save yourself from packing on the pounds this season with these 5 tips to beat the holidays with healthier habits.
PRIORITIZE YOUR SWEAT SESSIONS – #NOEXCUSES
Not having enough time is hardly an excuse to let go of your workout routine for the entire month between Thanksgiving and New Years. Sit down, take a hard look at your calendar, grab a permanent marker, and schedule time to sweat. Taking care of your body is just as important as taking care of your work and home life responsibilities. 90 minutes a day 3 times a week is a solid goal to aim for. Can’t do that? Squeeze in enough time and physical activity to get get your heart rate up.
MAKE YOUR WORKOUT WORK FOR YOU
You’ve got no time to waste, so make the most of your minutes spent training doing dynamic, full-body exercises. Explosive moves like squat jumps, jumping lunges, burpees, and medicine ball slams not only engage all of your muscles, but they give you the most bang for your buck in terms of calorie burn, leaving you more flexibility to indulge in pumpkin pie and eggnog later.
PRE-GAME HOLIDAY DINNER WITH HEALTHIER OPTIONS
If you think the best buffet strategy for your next holiday soiree is to “save” your calories so you can binge guilt-free, think again. Experts say it’s better to eat before you go – arriving with an somewhat-full stomach makes it easier to exhibit some self control around the spinach dip and endless supply of sugar cookies. This will allow you to skip the appetizers and save yourself for the main entrée.
BYO HEALTHY SIDE DISH OR DESSERT
Take the guesswork out of what you’re going to eat altogether and bring your own healthy side dish or dessert. Looking for something hearty and delicious? Try these protein packed pumpkin recipes that will perfectly compliment your family’s holiday dinner.
INDULGE MINDFULLY
Because the holiday season only comes around once a year justifying seconds, and thirds, is just so damn easy. And after the year we’ve had, who could blame you for a little indulgence? Chances are you’ve earned it. Keep yourself in check: evaluate the spread, decide which items are too scrumptious to pass up, and then take small portions of each.
As Oscar Wilde once said, “everything in moderation, including moderation.”
The holiday season is all about celebrating, spending time with loved ones, and taking time to appreciate the little things in life. Come January 1 you’ll be rested, relaxed, and ready to set new goals in, and out of, the gym.
Want to keep your training going? Sign up for the 21-day December Challenge and stay active, healthy, and fit while meeting goals.