Staying Fit and Balanced During the Festive Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, it brings along stress, holiday parties, and high-calorie treats. Even the most dedicated fitness and wellness enthusiasts may find it challenging to stay on track during this time. But Dana Gilbert, Senior Director of Fitness at Choose Fitness, has valuable tips to keep the holidays both healthy and active.

Staying motivated to exercise during this busy time of the year is no small feat. However, Gilbert explains that dedicating time to fitness provides many benefits for clients and members alike.

“Workout options are endless, and they support your health with more energy, a better mood, improved sleep, and reduced stress,” she shares. “Not every workout has to be long, sweaty, or exhausting, but intentional movement is essential.”

Gilbert advises setting aside time to create a “movement and mindset menu,” which can be especially helpful for those feeling overwhelmed at this time of year. Here’s a suggested “menu” to stay active and balanced:

Appetizer – Keep your body moving for 10-20 minutes.
Enjoy a brisk walk outdoors, dress appropriately, and bring a friend. Incorporate gentle stretching, take deep breaths, and let your body wake up — your joints will thank you! Set a timer and repeat a series of three bodyweight exercises, such as squats, lunges, and burpees, ten times until the timer beeps.

Main Course – Gift yourself time.
Join a favorite class at the gym — dance, strength, kickboxing, yoga, or Pilates — or try hybrid fitness, which encourages you to select your workout destination. Access virtual classes from home or attend in-person at the gym for a change of scenery. Another fun trend to try is “cozy cardio,” a comfortable approach to cardio that’s perfect for the busy season.

Dessert – Maintain a positive attitude toward exercise.
Remember, doing some activity is always better than none! The joy and satisfaction of completing even a small workout are valuable steps toward staying active, healthy, and happy throughout the holidays.

Create a personal timeline and track your winter workouts. If you typically work out three times a week and set a goal of two days during November-December, get digital and track on your wearable device. Or, for an old-school approach, mark a smiley face on your paper calendar when you complete a workout! What motivates you is unique, so find your own inspiration.

Reward yourself at the end of your timeline with new tights, running shoes, or a fitness wearable to celebrate your progress as you enter the New Year.

Gilbert also emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition and staying hydrated over the holidays. “Among all the delicious and festive drinks, make water your first-choice beverage. Keep your water bottle filled and close by. It won’t let you down and will help keep your body in balance.”

When socializing during the holidays, Gilbert suggests filling your plate with healthy options like fruits and vegetables but in moderate portions. “If that special treat is calling your name, enjoy a small portion,” she advises.

In addition to choosing active and nutritious options, Gilbert encourages taking some quiet time at the end of each day. Prioritizing rest and maintaining a consistent bedtime are essential. “If you typically go to bed at 10 p.m. and wake up at 6 a.m., try to stick to that routine,” she says.

Most importantly, Gilbert believes that finding balance is key during the holidays. “Your workout routine may feel tiring, and your motivation might be tested, so adjust it to fit the season,” she says. “You don’t have to abandon your workout routine entirely to enjoy the festivities.”