Are you making time to exercise during this cold, busy and bustling holidays?
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 great deal to do and often not enough time, resources or energy to do it.
Still, your health should never take a back seat. Are you currently getting enough exercise during this hectic time of year? Staying physically active not just benefits your weight, but reduces stress, clears your face and compliments your overall health management plan.
Holiday Exercise: Healthy Tips
You might be thinking, “I don’t have time for that!” or “No, it’s freezing out there!” But worry not — there will always be 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 shopping for gifts to begin with, so why not get a workout at the same time? Park your car far (enough) from the store to get a few extra steps. Walk the perimeter from the mall once or twice before visiting any stores. In case 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 visit light gazing with your family? Instead of taking the car, visit a nearby neighborhood by walking 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 holiday season is meant for gathering with your loved ones to spend quality time together. Rather than sitting around the television or dinner table, get moving! Take a hike within the cool air, go roller skating, or build snow people in your yard if it’s cold enough for snow to form.
Invest in Cold Weather Clothes
Give Your House a Makeover
You don’t have to wait until March or April to do a little “spring cleaning.” Why not take action before or around the Year for a fresh start? If the cold temperature is unbearable, clean the crevices of your home and get it in tip top shape. Dust, vacuum, scrub and rearrange.
Take Your exercise routine Indoors
If you’re normally a fan of outside exercise, take it inside. Go running or brisk walking on the treadmill (either at home or at the gym), dance to a favorite workout DVD or YouTube channel, and exercise 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 throughout 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!