10 Tips to Be Festive (& Fit)
‘Tis the season to be merry! Festive gatherings, family, friends and memory-making are all around us, but ’tis also the season for EXCUSES. Yes, I said it, the “E” word.
Unfortunately, with everything going on, many people tend to forget about their workouts over the holidays. This can be a very bitter cycle. No wonder new year resolutions exist! Sadly, all the festive joy may turn to gloom after realizing the skinny jeans no longer fit so well. You end up saying you’ll wait ’till the new year to get back on track, well – Why get off track in the first place? These are my 10 Tips to Be Festive (& Fit).
Workout first thing in the morning
The holidays are hectic so getting your workout done very first thing in the morning has serious benefits. Try setting your alarm a little bit earlier and building your day around your workout. This time of year, it’s very easy to be too tired or have too much to do in the evening. If you can’t get it in first thing in the morning, try taking a brisk walk on your lunch break.
Schedule your workouts
If it’s written down, it happens. By planning your workout you’re actually more likely to do it. Notice how I said “plan”? Yes, not good to just show up at the gym and think miracles will happen. You need a regimen or else excuses have you either not showing up for your workout OR cutting it short. By planning, you’re actually preparing yourself mentally for your workout and you’re making it a priority. I love my at-home fitness programs for this reason. I never have to “wonder” what workout I’m doing… there is a schedule with each program that helps me stay on track.
Plan “Treat Meals” (not cheat meals)
Many times, people feel deprived and annoyed because they miss eating the foods they really enjoy when trying to be fit or shed some weight, especially during the holidays! Who wants to skip Granny Mae’s Apple Pie or Uncle Ted’s famous Roast Beef with the BEST GRAVY EVER!! What happens next? Many people put away all the great things they’ve been doing for their nutrition, indulge because they felt deprived and end up thinking, “Ah well, I’m totally screwed now anyway, might as well just keep on going…” and then, 3000+ calories later… What if instead of depriving yourself of your favorite foods, you plan instances in advance where you will allow yourself to eat those foods guilt-free? Treat meals are small planned breaks in your regularly scheduled lifestyle that serve to keep you sane and happy. And since you planned for it, there’s no guilt involved and you’re NOT CHEATING. A healthy balance!
Be “Treat Meal” wise
A healthy balance involves eating healthy food. But what is healthy food? For the most part, your healthiest choices are clean, unprocessed whole foods, with minimal sugar. Start your treat meal by eating the protein portion first (this will get you to start getting full) and leave the carbs for the end of the meal. Also, try to not stuff yourself. I know, I know… moderation people! I’ve found incorporating Shakeology into my daily regimen truly wards off all my nasty food cravings – my body is satisfied.
Max your pre “Treat Meal” workout
After a good workout, the body is primed to absorb nutrients in the form of proteins and carbohydrates. By having a treat meal afterwards, most nutrients will be used for recovery and muscle production (and not so much fat production).
Say, “I don’t eat that” vs. “I can’t eat that”
What we say is so powerful. Imagine plates of chocolate goodies flying around the room, the scent of vanilla is in the air and apple crisp is in the oven. Even if you’ve already had your chocolate fudge brownie, that apple crisp sure smells delicious! Pretty soon, Aunt Betty is shoveling it out on dishes… and… you say, “I don’t eat that”. There’s no arguing there. You have also convinced YOURSELF, not just Aunt Betty! I’m sure Aunt Betty would have a few words with you if you said you couldn’t eat it. See?
Walk it off
By taking a brisk walk after a treat meal, you’re burning some of the carbohydrates that may still be lingering around. The more of these calories you burn, the less likely you are to store extra body fat. If your treat meal is later in the evening, get up early the next morning and workout or go for a brisk walk on an empty stomach or get your at-home fitness program going (it’s cold outside right?). No excuses here.
Try something new!
Perhaps your “same old routine” just doesn’t cut it this time of year and you need something to keep yourself extra motivated and on track. Join a fitness group or other active hobby for extra support. This time of year, I do online focus groups with my clients who have purchased fitness programs from me to help keep them accountable and supported. It works! It’s also a really fun way to get to know others who have similar goals.
Sleep!
Sleep is simply vital. I know, late night party anyone? Try to give yourself a couple extra hours the next morning. Your body will thank you. Lack of sleep can lead to poor decisions and general fatigue, and increase your appetite (not to mention increase those crazy food cravings)! It’s all related and total science. Many studies have demonstrated the link between weight management and sleep. Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to ensure your body is well rested with reduced stress (during this somewhat chaotic time of year).
Live with moderation
Everything in moderation is key. If you’re enjoying some holiday spirits or wine, limit yourself. For every glass of wine, enjoy a cold refreshing glass of water. Women should enjoy no more than 1 drink per day and men, no more than 2 (where one drink is equal to a 12 oz beer, 5 oz glass of wine or 1 ½ oz distilled spirits) according to the American Diabetes Association. Don’t forget to chew your food slowly and appreciate each bite. Drink water and stay hydrated so you feel less hungry. Get good sleep and enjoy every minute of it and don’t miss those workouts!
Yes, the holidays are tough but it’s really only as tough as you make it. Realize what your priority is, stick to it and you’ll be ringing in the New Year, proud of how far you’ve come.