5 Simple Ways to Stay Active Before the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, it can be all too easy to let fitness routines slip through the cracks. With Thanksgiving just a few weeks away, now is the perfect time to prioritize staying active and maintaining your health. Not only will this help you feel more energized, but it will also set you up for success when the festivities arrive. In this blog, we’ll explore five simple ways to keep moving before the holidays while incorporating practical tips that fit seamlessly into your busy schedule.
1. Set a Weekly Activity Goal
Establishing a clear and achievable activity goal is the first step to staying motivated. Consider setting a goal that aligns with your current fitness level. For example, aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week or commit to three strength training sessions. Tracking your progress can be motivating, so consider using a fitness app or a simple calendar to mark your accomplishments. You can also join fitness challenges online or with friends to create a sense of accountability.
2. Incorporate Short Workouts into Your Day
Finding time to exercise can be challenging, especially during the busy holiday season. However, short workouts can be just as effective as longer sessions. Aim for 10-15 minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions or bodyweight exercises that require no equipment. These quick workouts can easily fit into your day, whether during a lunch break or between holiday preparations.
For example, try a quick circuit of push-ups, squats, and planks. You can repeat the circuit two to three times for a full-body workout. There are plenty of online resources, including videos and apps, that can guide you through short but effective routines.
3. Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities
As November brings cooler temperatures and crisp air, it’s an ideal time to explore outdoor activities. Engage in fun physical activities like hiking, biking, or simply taking a brisk walk in your neighborhood or local park. Not only will this help you stay active, but it also allows you to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.
Incorporating outdoor activities into your routine can boost your mood and reduce stress, which is especially important as the holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming. Plus, getting outside helps you soak up natural sunlight, which can enhance your vitamin D levels and support your immune system during cold and flu season.
4. Engage in Family Fitness Activities
The holiday season is a time for family and togetherness, so why not turn your family gatherings into active events? Plan a family game day that includes sports like soccer, basketball, or even a friendly obstacle course in the backyard. These activities can be enjoyable for all ages and can help instill healthy habits in children.
If outdoor space is limited, consider indoor options like dancing, yoga, or even a fun fitness video. The key is to create a supportive environment where everyone can participate and enjoy being active together. Making movement a family affair not only helps keep everyone fit but also strengthens your bonds.
5. Make Movement a Part of Holiday Preparations
As you gear up for the holidays, don’t forget to incorporate movement into your holiday preparations. Turn tasks like decorating, cleaning, and cooking into opportunities for physical activity. For example, while you’re setting up decorations, take breaks to stretch or do a few lunges. When preparing meals, opt for standing rather than sitting while chopping vegetables.
Another great way to stay active is by using the time spent shopping to your advantage. Walk to nearby stores, park farther away from entrances, or consider carrying your groceries instead of using a cart. These small changes can add up to significant movement throughout your day.
Staying active before the holidays doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By setting achievable goals, incorporating short workouts, enjoying outdoor activities, engaging in family fitness, and making movement a part of your holiday preparations, you can maintain your health and energy levels as Thanksgiving approaches. Remember, consistency is key, and even small amounts of physical activity can make a significant difference.
1. Set a Weekly Activity Goal
Establishing a clear and achievable activity goal is the first step to staying motivated. Consider setting a goal that aligns with your current fitness level. For example, aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week or commit to three strength training sessions. Tracking your progress can be motivating, so consider using a fitness app or a simple calendar to mark your accomplishments. You can also join fitness challenges online or with friends to create a sense of accountability.
2. Incorporate Short Workouts into Your Day
Finding time to exercise can be challenging, especially during the busy holiday season. However, short workouts can be just as effective as longer sessions. Aim for 10-15 minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions or bodyweight exercises that require no equipment. These quick workouts can easily fit into your day, whether during a lunch break or between holiday preparations.
For example, try a quick circuit of push-ups, squats, and planks. You can repeat the circuit two to three times for a full-body workout. There are plenty of online resources, including videos and apps, that can guide you through short but effective routines.
3. Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities
As November brings cooler temperatures and crisp air, it’s an ideal time to explore outdoor activities. Engage in fun physical activities like hiking, biking, or simply taking a brisk walk in your neighborhood or local park. Not only will this help you stay active, but it also allows you to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.
Incorporating outdoor activities into your routine can boost your mood and reduce stress, which is especially important as the holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming. Plus, getting outside helps you soak up natural sunlight, which can enhance your vitamin D levels and support your immune system during cold and flu season.
4. Engage in Family Fitness Activities
The holiday season is a time for family and togetherness, so why not turn your family gatherings into active events? Plan a family game day that includes sports like soccer, basketball, or even a friendly obstacle course in the backyard. These activities can be enjoyable for all ages and can help instill healthy habits in children.
If outdoor space is limited, consider indoor options like dancing, yoga, or even a fun fitness video. The key is to create a supportive environment where everyone can participate and enjoy being active together. Making movement a family affair not only helps keep everyone fit but also strengthens your bonds.
5. Make Movement a Part of Holiday Preparations
As you gear up for the holidays, don’t forget to incorporate movement into your holiday preparations. Turn tasks like decorating, cleaning, and cooking into opportunities for physical activity. For example, while you’re setting up decorations, take breaks to stretch or do a few lunges. When preparing meals, opt for standing rather than sitting while chopping vegetables.
Another great way to stay active is by using the time spent shopping to your advantage. Walk to nearby stores, park farther away from entrances, or consider carrying your groceries instead of using a cart. These small changes can add up to significant movement throughout your day.
Staying active before the holidays doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By setting achievable goals, incorporating short workouts, enjoying outdoor activities, engaging in family fitness, and making movement a part of your holiday preparations, you can maintain your health and energy levels as Thanksgiving approaches. Remember, consistency is key, and even small amounts of physical activity can make a significant difference.
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