Staying true to our healthy habits during the holiday season can be one of the most challenging obstacles. With all of the delicious entrées and desserts, plus the chilly weather, it’s easy to choose to stay on the couch. However, it is possible to maintain your fitness goals throughout the holidays, and Planet Fitness has some tips to help you succeed!
Fitness Tips brought to you buy Antonio McMath a Fitness Trainer/Assistant Manager at Planet Fitness Fort Oglethorpe.
Portion Control
It’s easy to have one of everything during the holidays. The pies, the cookies, the casseroles – how could you say no? Our advice is to simply monitor your portions. If you are unsure of what a healthy portion is, just go by the size of your fist. If you are at a restaurant, remember that their portions can be slightly larger than needed. Consider sharing a plate with someone, or having them box up half of your entrée for another meal. This way you can enjoy all the yummy things you desire without stuffing yourself and regretting how you feel later. It’s a win for your taste buds and your belly!
Stay Active
It’s not always easy to maintain your normal workout routine when the holidays roll around. However, you can incorporate some active things that don’t even feel like exercise! Like going to the mall to get some holiday shopping done, taking a walk around the neighborhood, or going to a local park or attraction (Chattanooga has so many) with the family! If you are dedicated to maintaining a regular workout routine, Planet Fitness is open and staffed 24/7 even throughout the holidays. You can talk with a trainer to help you set goals, hop on treadmill if it’s too cold outside to go on a walk, or do a quick 12 Minute Abs circuit. Don’t let the cold weather get you down – there are plenty of ways to get out and stay active in the fall/winter months!
Make a Plan (even for the bad things)
It is completely okay to eat all the delicious dishes of the holidays. Our suggestion is to just plan for them! If you know you’re going to have a large dessert, maybe it would be better to go for green beans instead of yams during mealtime. It’s all about offsetting those unhealthy choices. If you make a plan, then you are more likely to succeed!
Accountability
Accountability doesn’t make you weak – it makes you stronger! After you’ve made a plan, involve someone else to help you stick to that plan (our certified fitness instructors are great at this!). It’s easy to fall into a cycle of bad choices after you make just one bad choice. If you have someone who will encourage you from the beginning, you are more likely to stay motivated. Find a friend or family member that you trust to check up on you and make sure you are continuing to strive for your goals. If you don’t have a partner now, be sure to have one before the holidays!
Monitor Sampling
A little taste here, a little taste there – it can add up! Take control of your diet during the holidays and do as best you can to stick to your goals. It’s okay to say no to sampling foods you don’t want to try. Feeling good about everything you are consuming is important!
A small step toward a goal is still a step in the right direction. Remember to keep a good mindset, surround yourself with encouragement, and have fun this holiday season!
