'Tis The (workout) Season
Gobble gobble… there goes your waistline. The holiday madness is almost here and on top of prepping Thanksgiving dinner and going through your nice list, maintaining your health and workouts should remain a priority. But between the cold lazy weather, peppermint cocktails and finger licking desserts we find ourselves in an unmotivated plateau the back half of the year. Even for the fittest people, it’s a challenge this time of the year to tie up their running shoes. Here are some tips that will keep your body and health on point by the time spring is in full bloom.
7 ways to avoid a workout rut this holiday season:
1. Use The Buddy System
Whether it be your spouse, neighbor or friend find an accountable partner that will motivate you to sweat it out. Make sure your workout buddy is someone you can rely on to show up and push all the way until the end.
2. Pump The Jams
The music blasting through your headphones has the power to improve your energy level and assist in getting you through the workout. Research has shown that the faster the beat, the higher the intensity. Take a break from holiday shopping to revamp your playlist and go get your butt on that stair climber.
3. New Gear New Body
During the cold months you will want to make sure that you have the appropriate workout apparel to get you through the workout. By investing in new clothes you will be properly equipped to burn those calories #DoYouEvenLiftBro. Side note: TJ Maxx + Nordstrom Rack have budget friendly (and cute) workout clothes.
4. Get Outside
Ditch the gym. For those days that going to the gym and being cooped up inside sounds like the end of the world take your workout outside. The fresh air and scenery are an added benefit that will boost your mood and self-esteem. Depending on where you live that may mean skiing, ice skating, hiking or a run on the beach. Whatever options await, get out in the great outdoors.
5. Stay In Control
You are not a dog, don’t treat yourself with food. Look, I get it. Your mouth waters at the thought of your mom’s Thanksgiving dinner and your grandmother’s delicious holiday desserts. Should you enjoy every bite? Absolutely. Should you go back for seconds? That question is one you will have to answer. Holiday weight gain is not a myth but is it worth it? Stay in control and plan accordingly. A personal trick that I stick to before attending a cocktail party is I eat a healthy meal beforehand so I’m not tempted to sit by the dip and shove my face with chips.
6. Time Management
The holidays are an extra busy time and sometimes it feels impossible to get a workout in. Wrong. There is time, there is always time. Even a 30-minute workout can be as efficient if done correctly. Push harder during your cardio routine or add extra weight and cut down the reps. You will walk into your company’s holiday party feeling less guilty about eating that Christmas cookie. Balance is key.
7. Set A Big Goal
2017 is right around the corner so why not get a jump start on your New Year’s Resolution. Set a goal and set it today, right now. Write it down and tape it up on your mirror. Hang a picture of a Victoria Secret Angel on your refrigerator – whatever you need to do, do it. Why wait for the ball to drop? Start working on your goal now and you will feel so damn good when you’ve reach it.
