The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but they can also be the worst time of year for maintaining your workout routine. And yet, exercise is more important than ever these last few weeks of the year, when stress, holiday indulgences and busy schedules can get the best of us. To help you stay motivated, here are some tips to keep your fitness on track during the holidays.
Tip #1: Adapt Your Schedule
If you normally workout in the evenings, but find you need that time for holiday shopping, decorating and attending parties, switch your workout routine to the morning. Getting up earlier takes a little getting used to, but you might find you actually prefer it. By working out in the morning, you set the tone for the rest of your day, and have more time to get things done on your to-do list.
Tip #2: Make it a Social Activity
If you’re struggling to find time to exercise and spend time with family and friends, why not workout with your family and friends? Instead of meeting up for dinner or drinks, plan a winter hike, go for a holiday lights walk, play a dance game, or take a fitness class together. You may not burn as many calories as you do in your normal workout, but a little physical activity is better than none.
Tip #3: Workout with a Friend or Trainer
Speaking of working out with family and friends, a workout buddy is a proven way to keep yourself motivated and accountable. You’re less likely to skip the gym or miss a class when you’ve made a commitment to go with a friend. Some people even work with a personal trainer during the holidays, to hold them accountable when they know they’re more likely to slack off.
Tip #4: Do Short HIIT Workouts
When you’re short on time, high intensity interval training (HIIT) is a great alternative to longer workouts. This exercise format incorporates cardio and strength training, and alternates between periods of high and low intensity, to achieve maximum effort in a short amount of time. In just 20 to 30 minutes, you can burn 100 to 300 calories and build strength, as well.
Tip #5: Workout at Home
Let’s face it, the hardest part about exercising this time of year is sitting in your freezing cold car, braving the bad weather and holiday traffic, and going to a gym, where you’re more likely to catch a cold or virus. Make it easier on yourself by working out at home. Consider on-demand fitness classes, invest in free weights, or treat yourself to a treadmill, elliptical or an exercise bike as an early Christmas gift.
Don’t Wait Until the New Year to Get Fit
If you can stick to these workout tips, you’re sure to stay motivated this holiday season. Need an extra boost? Stop by our Concepts in Fitness stores for the best deals on treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals and more in Albany and Saratoga NY. Beat the new year’s resolution rush and save up to 30% on all brands of fitness equipment during our Christmas Sale.
Contact us for sale prices, or visit us in-store.