’Tis the season of staying fit said no one ever. Busy schedules, holiday parties, and endless culinary temptations make it especially difficult to stick to your fitness routine this time of year. The holidays have a way of throwing even the most dedicated health enthusiast off their game.
Create Your Stay-Active Holiday Plan
Make a promise to yourself to do at least 10 minutes of exercise and physical activity every day until New Year’s Eve.
Another thing you can do is look for items on your list that can easily accommodate some exercise multitasking. For example, did you promise to make a side dish for the family gathering? Do some strength and balance exercises while your dish bakes.
Remember, you only need 10 to 30 minutes to set aside for movement. Making that time for yourself is so worth it!
Stay-Fit Strategy #1: Start Small and Be Realistic
If your goal is to exercise daily, begin with one or two days a week. Pick days when you can easily fit it in. Add another day as each week goes by.
Stay-Fit Strategy #2: Picture Your Success
Write down your goal in a few simple words, and post it where you’ll see it daily. A visual reminder may strengthen your resolve.
Stay-Fit Strategy #3: Make It Mandatory
Time management is important for accomplishing any goal, and fitness is no exception. Even if it’s just 10 minutes, put it on your calendar. Call it your “feel better session,” and make that time non-negotiable. You’ll boost your mood and health, and it will become a key part of your routine.
Stay-Fit Strategy #4: Track Your Progress Daily
Record your achievements daily or weekly: how many steps you walked, the number of exercise reps, pounds lost, and so on.
Stay-Fit Strategy #5: Recruit Someone to Hold You Accountable
Maintaining an ongoing schedule with the same person can help you stay accountable. You’ll want to hold up your part of the bargain.
Plus, you can get a great workout while having a great time. Think about it: The more fun your workouts are, the more you will look forward to and be committed to them over the long term. And consistency and longevity are necessary for achieving your goals.
Stay-Fit Strategy #6: Savor Every Success
There’s no better feeling than finishing a workout. Let the feeling of accomplishment wash over you, so you’ll remember the feeling when it’s time for your next workout.
And make no mistake: This is a big deal! You’ve just rewarded yourself with better health this winter—and a happier, fuller, and potentially longer life.
