How to Stay Active During the Holiday Hustle
As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to prepare ourselves mentally, physically, and emotionally for its hectic nature. Staying active during this time is essential for maintaining both physical and mental well-being, but that doesn’t mean spending hours at the gym.
With time constraints, social obligations, and increased stress, the holidays can raise cortisol levels, lead to weight gain, and leave you feeling less than ideal. By understanding the challenges and implementing a few simple strategies, you can make incremental improvements this year compared to last.
The Challenges of Staying Active During the Holidays
The holidays often come with unique barriers that make staying active more difficult:
Time Constraints: From gift shopping to cooking meals and attending events, your schedule can fill up fast, leaving little room for workouts.
Travel: Visiting family or taking holiday vacations can disrupt your usual fitness routine.
Holiday Meals: With indulgent meals and treats everywhere, it’s tempting to trade physical activity for lounging and snacking.
Statistically, the average adult gains 1-2 pounds during the holiday season, and some studies suggest it’s closer to 5-10 pounds for those who are less active. This doesn’t mean you should feel guilty about enjoying the season—it simply means incorporating movement wherever possible can help you stay balanced and feel your best.
5 Tips to Stay Active
Prioritize Movement
Scheduling workouts like appointments can help you make time for exercise. Even if it’s just a five-minute walk at the end of the day, those small moments of movement add up. Keep it simple and realistic—focus on consistency over intensity.Involve Family or Neighbors
Turn fitness into a social activity. Invite family or neighbors to join you for a quick walk, a friendly game of tag with the kids, or even walking to the mailbox together. These small moments not only keep you active but also foster connection and fun.Short Workouts
If time is tight, opt for quick 10-15 minute workouts. Choose three simple exercises, such as squats, push-ups, and planks, and rotate through them. These mini-sessions can be just as effective as longer ones when done consistently.Modify for Weather
Don’t let cold weather stop you. If it’s too chilly to go outside, find indoor alternatives like climbing stairs, walking at a recreation center, or even following a short YouTube workout. Adjust your plans as needed but keep moving.Use Free Resources
Fitness apps and platforms like YouTube offer countless free workout videos, from yoga to HIIT sessions. Even committing to just five minutes of activity is better than skipping it altogether.Take your Hobby on the Go
Do you like to take photographs? Listen to podcasts? Grab a coffee and sit in a coffee shop? Take it on the go with you this season and enjoy the crisp fresh air. It doesn’t have to be long, even a 15-20 minute walk is great!
Staying active during the holidays doesn’t have to be complicated. A little movement here and there can go a long way in keeping you energized, reducing stress, and helping you feel great.
Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Give yourself grace during this busy season and focus on what you can do, not what you can’t. A body in motion stays in motion, so keep moving and enjoy the holidays to the fullest!
