Are you making time to exercise during this cold, busy and bustling holiday season?
Snow flurries, frosted windshields and thick winter coats are trademarks of the holiday season. So are shopping lists, mountains of wrapping paper and travel schedules! There’s a whole lot to do and often not enough time, resources or energy to do it.
Still, your health should never take a back seat. Are you getting enough exercise during this hectic time of year? Staying physically active not only benefits your weight, but reduces stress, clears your head and compliments your overall health management plan.
Holiday Exercise: Healthy Tips
You may be thinking, “I don’t have the time for that!” or “No, it’s too cold out there!” But worry not — there are always ways to squeeze-in those extra bursts of physical activity and stay right on track. Consider these practical (and fun!) winter fitness tips:
Get a Workout While You Shop
You’re already doing holiday gift shopping to begin with, so why not get a workout at the same time? Park your car far (enough) away from the store to get a few extra steps. Walk the perimeter of the mall once or twice before visiting any stores. If your supermarket is close by and you only need a few things for holiday dinner, walk or bike there. All movement makes a difference!
Walk to See Holiday Lights
Do you plan to go light gazing with your family? Instead of taking the car, visit a nearby neighborhood on foot instead. A walking tour gets you active and gives you more time to marvel at twinkling lights and colors. If you’re cold, bring along some low-sugar hot coffee!
Make Family Time Active Time
The holidays are meant for gathering with your loved ones to spend quality time together. Instead of sitting around the television or dinner table, get moving! Take a hike in the cool air, go ice skating, or build snow people in your yard if it’s cold enough for snow to form.
Invest in Cold Weather Clothes
If you want to stick to your everyday workout routine but the weather is turning you off, bundle up. Consider warm fleece undershirts, windbreakers and durable boots. Don’t forget wool socks, a thick scarf, knit mittens and/or a hat to keep your extremities warm.
Give Your House a Makeover
You don’t have to wait until March or April to do a little “spring cleaning.” Why not get it done before or around the New Year for a fresh start? If the cold weather is unbearable, clean the crevices of your home and get it in tip top shape. Dust, vacuum, scrub and rearrange.
Take Your Workout Indoors
If you’re normally a fan of outdoor exercise, take it inside. Go running or brisk walking on a treadmill (either at home or at the gym), dance to a favorite workout DVD or YouTube channel, and practice sets of jumping jacks, squats, lunges and more.
Exercise is a Lifestyle
Healthy habits pave the way for long-term success. If there’s a barrier to your preferred workout routine, don’t just avoid it altogether – find a solution and work around the problem.
Staying fit and active won’t just benefit your weight, but will probably keep you sane during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! Don’t lose sight of the physical, mental and emotional benefits of exercise. In the future, you’ll be so glad you did!
