MVMT Physical Therapy

6 Tips To Keep Up With Your Fitness Journey This Christmas

Worried about your festive celebrations impacting your fitness journey? Keep reading to find out how you can stay on track during the holidays.

That’s right, the holiday season is upon us – a time filled with joy, festivities, and, of course, a whole lot of delicious food.

But it’s also a period when your regular fitness journey can easily go off track, making it challenging to stay in shape.

But I’m here to provide you with strategies to help you maintain your fitness through the holidays, no matter how busy your schedule gets.

Understanding the Holiday Challenge

As the holiday season approaches, our lives tend to become a whirlwind of social events, holiday parties, and traveling.

It’s a time when we may indulge a bit more, enjoy a glass or two of holiday spirits, and perhaps spend more time on the couch watching Netflix… and that’s fine – you deserve it!

While celebrating and relaxing are essential aspects of the holiday season, it’s crucial not to let these festivities completely derail your health and fitness journey.

Let’s face it; no one wants to start the new year feeling sluggish, heavier, and more out of shape.

Maintaining Movement: The Key to Success

One of the most effective ways to keep your fitness on track during the holidays is by maintaining movement.

Even if you find yourself away from the gym during the season, don’t despair; there are plenty of ways to stay active.

Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Embrace Running:

You don’t have to be an avid runner to benefit from a short jog.

Running is a fantastic way to get your heart rate up and maintain your cardiovascular fitness.

Even if it’s just a quick run around the block, it can make a significant difference.

2. Minimal Equipment Workouts:

Resistance bands are a fantastic addition to your holiday fitness toolkit.

These portable bands can provide an effective full-body workout.

If you don’t have resistance bands, get creative—you could use a gallon jug of laundry detergent as a makeshift kettlebell for squats and lunges.

3. Keep Joints Moving:

Avoid the holiday pitfall of stiffness by focusing on joint mobility.

Perform simple stretches and mobility exercises that allow your joints to move through their full range of motion.

This can help you stay flexible and reduce the risk of stiffness.

Balancing Celebration and Self-Care

The holiday season is all about celebrating with friends and family, and it’s essential to enjoy these moments.

However, it’s equally important to find a balance that allows you to maintain your fitness journey and overall well-being.

Consider implementing the following strategies to help you navigate this balancing act:

1. Limit Couch Time:

While it’s tempting to cozy up on the couch for Netflix marathons, don’t let it become the norm.

Set aside time for physical activity, even if it’s just a short workout or a brisk walk.

2. Mindful Indulgence:

Enjoy the holiday treats but do so mindfully.

Savor your favorite dishes without overindulging and balance them with nutritious choices whenever possible.

3. Prioritize Self-Care:

Amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping and planning, don’t forget to prioritize self-care.

Dedicate some time each day to focus on your well-being, whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing, or a few moments of quiet reflection.

Don’t Let the Break Derail Your Fitness Journey

Taking a break from your usual routine is entirely acceptable and, at times, even necessary.

However, remember that it only takes a short period of inactivity to become deconditioned, leading to feelings of weakness and fatigue.

When you return to your fitness journey after a long break, you may find yourself prone to injuries and feeling disheartened.

To avoid this, aim to stay active and engaged during the holiday season. It will make your return to regular exercise more manageable, and you’ll feel stronger and more energized.

Ready to Take Action?

If you’re committed to maintaining your fitness through the holidays but need personalized guidance, we’re here to help.

Our Free Discovery Visit offers the opportunity to discuss your goals and concerns, ensuring that you stay on track to achieve your fitness goals.

Schedule your Free Discovery Visit by clicking HERE or giving us a call at (646) 430-5717.

Together, we can make sure you enjoy a healthy and active holiday season.

Remember, your health and well-being are worth prioritizing, even during the busiest of times. With the right strategies and mindset, you can maintain your fitness and start the new year feeling fantastic.