How to avoid a holiday exercise hiatus
When the holiday season cranks up, the best of fitness intentions can fall apart. Two of the most common problems: not enough time and not enough motivation.
These ideas will help you fit in a little extra exercise, or liven up your current workouts, to ensure you stay in fine form through the holidays and into the new year.
How to squeeze it in
- Park at the far end of the lot. You will save time searching for a good spot and get more exercise.
- Shop online. Avoid the crowds and long lines and spend the time you saved at the gym instead.
- Walk up. Take the escalator or stairs whenever you can.
- Practice active entertaining. Vary the usual get-togethers by hosting an activity-themed gathering like a curling or skating party.
- Kick-start each day. Even a five-minute home workout or stretching session will help to kick-start your metabolism.
How to pump it up and keep you motivated
- Bump up the challenge. Increase the resistance or intensity of your usual workouts: run faster, lift heavier, walk steeper.
- Vary the moves. Most exercises have several variations. For example, change arm or leg positions on ordinary push-ups, or add an upper body twist to lunges.
- Track it. If you never use a pedometer or the programs on the equipment at the gym, try them out for a little competitive edge.
- Set a new goal. Take a break from focusing on the current holidays and set your sights on a spring sporting event. It will motivate you to stay active throughout the dark winter months.