Just take a peek in your planner – is everything from now until New Year’s Day filled with different tasks that you have to fulfil? Definitely yes, as the end of each year is booked for all the things that we need to finish before immersing into the new one. So, staying fit is definitely something that suffers, as we lack time to find time to hit the gym or actually pay attention to the way we look. However, the fact that you have so many things to do doesn’t mean that you cannot find time to work on yourself and your body – after all, you need to look on point for Christmas and New Year, right?
1. Being Johnny Walker
The most important thing that you need to do is be active. Remember that you’re not a bear who’s about to go into hibernation – you need to be active throughout the whole year, and this period is not different at all. Since it’s cold and the weather is perhaps not the one that you prefer, you should embrace the beauty of winter and actually substitute taxis, cars and buses with your feet. Try to walk as much as you can, breathing the fresh winter air – this way, you will stay active and enjoy the season. This is also important as you will probably eat a lot more during this period, so burning a couple of calories by walking is definitely the way to go.
2. Your sports crush for the season
Perhaps you’re a gym rat who cannot find time to go to the gym and work out, or you can be, on the other hand, that type of person who cannot find their ideal sport. Well, winter is definitely a season during which you need to find a sport hobby. If you’re a summer lover, then you should try swimming as it will remind you of the hot summer days and make your winter pass faster. The only thing you need is the best one piece swimwear that you can find, hit the pool and you’re good to go. Swimming is also an extremely healthy sport, so not only will you be working on staying fit, but it can do wonders for your body as well.
3. H2O on the go
Yes, it’s colder outside and perhaps you think that your hydration routine should be somewhat different than that of the summer, and this is where you will be mistaken! Winter is also a season during which you need to stay hydrated, especially if you want to stay fit and work on your body. Sometimes your body can mistake thirst for hunger, so it’s always good to have a small water bottle by your side. Make a plan to drink six to eight glasses of water per day and drink two big glasses of water before each of (the many) calorie-rich meals.
4. The menu of the season
The season of holidays is definitely a peculiar one – we don’t get to work much, yet still, we have so much on our plates, literally. This is also the season during which many gain a couple of extra pounds, mainly because of the numerous dinner parties filled with exquisitely tasty, yet calorie-rich food. Your job is not to avoid them, but you should definitely pay attention to the things you eat on a daily basis. The best option would be to cook as much as you can, as home-cooked food is always healthier than the junk food you buy in the restaurants or fast food joints. Also, not only is it healthier, but it can save you a couple of bucks that you can use to get a better present for your special someone. Make sure you eat a lot of green veggies and fruit; these can help you get through the holiday season. So – eat strategically!
5. Collect your zzz’s
Finally, you should definitely bear in mind the hours you sleep during the night. First of all, a lack of sleep can be seen on your face in the form of dark circles around your eyes (that are definitely not sexy!), but it can also lead to a lack of energy that can furthermore affect your overall health and fitness. Getting seven or eight hours of sleep at night is the right thing to do, and it should be maintained during the course of the whole year, not only winter.
As you can see, it can be quite daunting to actually pay attention to your fitness during the holiday season, but suffice it to say that it’s very much advisable. So start small – pay attention to the things you eat, find some time to work out or do any sport that you like, and sleep a lot. This will tremendously help you stay fit during the holidays!
Guest Blogger
Mia Taylor can be reached at mrsmiataylor@gmail.com or her website
