Tis’ The Season 

Here we are in the last quarter of the year. Pumpkin spice is in everything from coffee to marshmallows to candles and muffins. Candy is overflowing. Turkeys are in the news, and all the trimming ingredients are on the grocery store end caps. The man in the red suit is busy; holiday decorations are already on the shelves, and Hallmark has released their Christmas movie countdown.

If you’re like me, you’re starting to stress a tad and already anxious about plans; who’s where, who’s coming, and what will we cook? What will I wear to the holiday party? Don’t get me wrong; I do enjoy the holidays. I have learned over the years what I can do to control the stress and keep myself focused and on track with my health and fitness through these 12 weeks of the year. Yes, it is possible.

I’m straight up with you here; why work hard all year to be healthy and in great shape and toss it all out the window in 12 weeks? Most people get to January 1st and weigh more than when they began their program ten prior.

Here are some of my tips to help you get through this last quarter of the year and ring in the new year with the momentum you’ve created. I encourage you to keep the habit going. The worst thing you can do right now is to stop. Let’s stay consistent.

You’ve managed to change your body composition. Congratulations, you’ve kept the pounds off. If you recently started your program, don’t worry; you are stronger than you know and will get through the season.

Here are some tips to help you maintain and not put on those extra holiday pounds.

1. Don’t wait to restart your fitness program on January 1st. If you have been lax with your fitness program, start NOW. Get out and walk daily. Keep the habit going. Make it a point to get 25 to 30 minutes of dedicated exercise at least 4 to 6 days a week.
2. Find a coach or ask a friend to be your daily accountability partner. Don’t go it alone. There is power in the TEAM!
3. Exercise is medicine. It will help you deal with the stress of the holidays. Keep your routine. It will be the one constant and something you choose to stay in control of.
4. During the holidays, enjoy your special holiday meal. Keep an eye on your portions. Moderation is the key here. Try small samples of holiday foods on the actual holiday. Keep it dialed in for the rest of the week, and follow your plan. Just say NO. I know and agree; this may be tough.
5. Celebrate the season by planning some activities with family and friends. Here are a few ideas; dancing, hiking, bowling, and a scavenger hunt. Get creative and get everyone moving. Avoid binge-watching TV for hours on end.
6. Take a vacation. Travel and go to a place you have never been before.
7. Watch that eggnog. Keep a close eye on the alcohol. Have one or two drinks, and that’s it. Enjoy a lovely high-end, top-shelf libation, savor and enjoy and nurse it. Don’t get the drinks in 24 packs and go to town. Enjoy the season.

If you stick with your plan and focus on taking care of yourself first, you will have the strength and energy to get through and come out on January 1st, not starting over. You’ve got this!