3 Tips to Stay on Track over the Holidays

Season’s Greetings, my dear iFit family! I’m Brooke Leavitt, an iFit Ambassador and certified personal trainer, sharing with you my top 3 tips to stay on track over the holidays. I know you’ve been working hard on your fitness journey and have come a long way! So don’t let the upcoming celebrations derail you from your progress or your goals.

1. Make time to stay active.

Whether it’s for just fifteen minutes or an hour, you won’t regret making time to exercise amidst the holiday bustle. Don’t be afraid to layer up and brave the cold weather outside! For my winter warriors, pick your poison: trail walking, running, snowshoeing, hiking, or biking, to name a few. Enlist your family and friends to go on an outdoor adventure with you! For my indoor gym rats: head to your local gym for a yoga or cycling class, lift weights, or squeeze in a quick at-home workout in your basement. You’ll snag some endorphins and help burn off some of those extra holiday calories (because let’s be honest—Grandma’s gingerbread cookies are too delicious to pass up). Whatever you choose, just find ways to GET MOVING.

2. Stay hydrated.

Not only does drinking plenty of water help me feel energized and ready to take on all the holiday happenings, but it helps me avoid overeating, as well. My tip? I love to drink a large glass of water before every meal! That way, my stomach feels more full, and I’m less likely to reach for that extra dinner roll. Also, if you love exercising outside in the winter (I, personally, absolutely LOVE winter trail running!) it can be easy to forget to hydrate, because you’re so focused on staying warm and you might not feel thirsty. Make a conscious effort to get lots of water in every day, especially if you’re working out a lot.

3. Enjoy treats in moderation, guilt-free.

Since you’ll most likely be surrounded by plenty of holiday treats, make a game plan now! Don’t just say no to everything and deprive yourself. Instead, pick your favorite indulgent foods and treats, then enjoy them in moderation, in proper portions. Try to pay attention to your body’s hunger cues, and when you’re full, stop eating. But if you do happen to gobble down a few too many treats, don’t beat yourself up over it. Just pick your awesome self right back up, move on, and continue to eat healthier foods in a normal way. In the past, when I’ve stopped eating to try and make up for eating too many treats, it only led to cravings and the desire to eat every single piece of junk food in sight! I become Brookie the literal cookie monster! Realize that the holidays only come around once a year, and they are to be ENJOYED, surrounded by loved ones, along with the inevitable delicious food that comes along with them.

Simply follow these three simple tips throughout the next few weeks, and you’ll be SO proud of yourself! At times, it may be challenging, but in those difficult times, remember why you started your health and fitness journey so you can keep your perspective in check. You’ve got this!

Happy holidays, my friends. I’m wishing you the most wonderful holiday season!

XOXO

Brooke

WARNING: This post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFit assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article.