Thanksgiving has come and gone, which means the Holiday Season is in full swing! Between the chaotic schedules, cold weather and endless holiday gatherings, it can be tough to stick to your fitness routine and healthy eating habits. Although it may seem hard, it is extremely important for our physical and mental health to keep somewhat of a routine and stay active. While you celebrate with the ones you love this year, remember these tips to help you stick to your health habits and exercise routine during the holidays. Schedule Your Workout Whether you take group classes, visit your local gym or exercise at home, it can be helpful to block off time during your week to exercise. Just as you would schedule a meeting or an appointment, schedule time to be active and make it a priority in your day. With more events and a busier schedule than usual this time of year, it can help prioritize exercise and keep you on track. Workout at Home Even if you don’t have time to get to your usual evening pilates class or can’t make time to head to your regular gym, there are plenty of options for exercising at home. Countless apps and websites offer free or inexpensive content with a variety of workouts ranging in length and difficulty level. Swap 30 minutes of time spent watching TV with a quick workout to keep yourself feeling healthy and keep your mind clear. Exercise in the Morning Whether it’s last minute shopping or a holiday happy hour with your coworkers, there are always last minute plans that come up during the busy holiday season. You don’t need to wake up hours earlier to drive to the gym, a brisk walk around the block or a bodyweight workout in front of the TV can be a great way to start your day. Try waking up 20-45 minutes earlier to squeeze in your regular workout. As an added bonus, you will have more energy throughout the day! Call a Friend It can be hard to keep yourself motivated and accountable any time of the year, but especially during the holiday season. It’s easy to convince yourself to stay in bed longer or skip your evening workout, but if you have a workout buddy holding you accountable, you will be much less likely to skip. Pick a friend, spouse, roommate, sibling or anyone else who has similar goals and you can help keep each other accountable. Do What You Can Even with planning, morning exercises and a workout buddy there will definitely be some things that throw your schedule off. Don’t be too hard on yourself, and remember that something is better than nothing. If you can’t fit in an hour, try 15 minutes. If you usually take the elevator up to your office, switch to the stairs. Small bits of movement add up throughout the day and can help you stick to your fitness goals all year long. Sticking to your fitness routine during the holidays can help keep you healthy during this overly indulgent season, as well as help reduce stress. Small bits of movement add up throughout the day and can help you stick to your fitness goals all year long. Additionally, focusing on consuming small healthy meals and including greens powders, containing vitamins and nutrients can help maintain health. Sticking ot your fitness routine during the holidays can help keep you healthy during this time, as well as help reduce stress. Perfection isn’t necessary, but any type of movement will be beneficial. From all of us here at Southwoods Health, we wish you a healthy and happy holiday season.

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jkosko