RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) — With merry festivities — including eggnog, sweet treats, and down-home cooking—the holidays can be a tough time to stay active.
But there are ways to stick to your fitness routine or commit to getting in shape.
“Prioritize it. Even if you don’t have a ton of time to do it, at least make time for something, whether a 20-minute walk or some exercises (if) you don’t have access to a lot of equipment,” said Performance Fitness Lead Trainer Courtney Hosch. “Prioritizing something so you can keep the routine or start a new routine.”
Richard Gauldin can attest to that; he’s in the gym five days a week and says he’s one of those guys even there on Christmas Day pumping iron.
“Last year I watched the Grinch on TV while I was working out,” the bodybuilder said. “For me, it’s about looking good without a shirt on and a mental thing. Working out is my therapy — releases endorphins and adrenaline. It’s just a feel-good feeling.”
When it comes to your goals, if you’re new to fitness and go too hard you might not want to return.
“Keep it within reason, even if you feel like you’re not pushing too hard,” Hosch said, adding that by easing into it you can make it a lifestyle instead of just one-and-done.
The trainer says to stick to your Christmas dinner, not a whole month of Christmas dinners.
“Then getting back to your regular eating routine afterward will keep you from sabotaging yourself,” said Hosch. “Pay attention to the liquid calories (like specialty Christmas Starbucks drinks or alcohol) because they add up quickly and can destroy your goals.”
Watch your portion size at the holiday table.
“If you get one plate instead of seven, that helps,” the trainer said. “Getting at least a quarter of your plate with a good protein source (meat or high-quality vegetable blend).”
As for New Year’s resolutions; she says don’t wait — if you have goals go ahead and start them now. And consider your why: do you want to look good, feel better, or be able to keep up with your grandkids?
Make them smart goals.
“Specific, measurable, attainable, relevant. And time sensitive,” said Hosch.
Stick with your fitness aspirations throughout the holidays and beyond like showing up.
“Whenever you don’t want to show up, that’s when you should show up,” Gauldin said. “That’ll make you work out the hardest. And never quit.”
