Staying on track with your health and fitness can be tough when the holidays roll around for another year. Whether it’s trying to squeeze training in between, work, family, travel and parties or trying to stay true to eating healthy whilst temptation is constantly placed in front of you, getting though this time of year unscathed can be quite the mission. Fortunately there is plenty we can do to make sure we avoid that seasonal weight gain or loss of our hard earned fitness gains. Give these tips a go so you can stay focused on your health and fitness goals these holidays.
Set Micro Goals
During the holidays our focus is generally just to make it through the day. Breaking our goals down into smaller more manageable micro goals can help us to stay realistic about what we can achieve over this busy period. Set goals for each week in accordance with the other commitments that you have. For example this week you might be happy to train three times but next week you’ll have time to achieve more. Remember to tailor your goals to you and what you think is achievable.
Plan Your Training
It doesn’t matter if it’s holiday season or not, planning out your training is something you should be doing anyway. If you’re serious about your training you should be accounting for at least the next seven days in advance so you know exactly what you’re doing. This becomes even more important during the holidays when you’re committing more time to some of your other priorities. Planning out when you’re training, how long you’re training for and what you’re training will help keep you accountable to your goals.
Recruit a Training Buddy
It can be hard to motivate yourself when you’re busy but even more so when your brain is in holiday mode. A training buddy can help keep you motivated and accountable, plus it’s always more fun training with someone else. The holidays is perfect for family time so this is a great opportunity to get active with your loved ones.
Treat Yourself but Don’t Overindulge
Holiday season normally brings with it parties and family gatherings which most often then not include all our favourite holiday foods. There is no need to deprive yourself of these foods but be smart, have one serve rather then five. Don’t let Christmas lunch lead to a mindless whole day splurge. Plan ahead and make sure you’re eating regular healthy meals outside of these events. Identify meals where you plan to treat yourself a little and remain disciplined about this. Eating mindfully before the party can help you to maintain your self control because you won’t be starving by the time the food is served.
Something is Better Than Nothing
If you’re short on time or can’t get to the gym during the holidays there is no need to throw in the towel. This is a great chance to mix up your training, try a HIIT workout, get outside for a run or try mixing it up with some body weight exercises. It’s also a great time of the year to get out and about and clock up some steps. No gym, no excuse. There is a tone of ways to be active over this holiday period.
See you really don’t have to wave goodbye to your health and fitness goals just because it’s holiday time. All it means is you need to be a little more conscious about how you approach this time. With a little planning and commitment to your goals you can enjoy the festivities without losing sight of what you really want.
xx Tara
Do you find it hard to stay motivated over the holidays? Let me know in the comments section below.
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