As we approach the holiday season, maintaining an active lifestyle can be challenging, especially with the hustle and bustle of festive preparations. Did you know that the majority of adults in the United States aren’t regularly physically active, with only 30% meeting recommended exercise levels? Lack of time is a common obstacle, and during the holidays, this challenge tends to intensify.
Even for those who typically exercise, daily workouts often slip to the bottom of the priority list amid holiday tasks like gift shopping, party hopping, and visiting loved ones. However, staying active during the holidays is not only possible but can also be enjoyable and festive! Take a moment to assess what you can and can’t control, then focus on managing your time effectively. To help you stay on track, here are some tips and fun exercise ideas for the holiday season:
Tips for Staying Active During the Holidays:
Amidst the festive gatherings and indulgent meals, it’s essential to prioritize physical activity to promote overall well-being. One effective strategy is to incorporate exercise into your holiday traditions. Instead of viewing it as a separate task, consider it an integral part of the festive season. Engage in activities that involve movement, such as taking family walks after meals or organizing friendly sports games during gatherings. This not only keeps you active but also creates memorable moments with loved ones.
Additionally, adapting your workout routine to the holiday schedule can help you stay consistent. Recognize that you may have time constraints or different commitments, so be flexible with your exercise plan. Short, high-intensity workouts can be efficient and time-saving, allowing you to maintain your fitness goals without feeling overwhelmed. Embrace the idea that every bit of movement counts, whether it’s a quick home workout, a brisk walk, or even dancing to holiday music. Consistency over the holidays is key, and finding joy in the process makes it more likely that you’ll stick to your fitness routine.
Another effective approach is to prioritize active socializing. Instead of solely focusing on food-centric gatherings, explore ways to engage in physical activities with friends and family. Organize group outings like hiking, ice skating, or playing active games. This not only adds a fun element to the holiday season but also fosters a supportive environment for maintaining your fitness goals. Encourage loved ones to join you in staying active, turning it into a shared commitment that enhances the overall festive experience.
Mindful choices in holiday festivities also play a significant role in staying active. While indulging in holiday treats is part of the celebration, moderation is key. Be conscious of portion sizes and opt for healthier alternatives when possible. Balancing indulgence with nutritious choices contributes to overall well-being and complements your commitment to staying active. Ultimately, the holidays are a time to enjoy and connect, and incorporating physical activity into the festive spirit ensures a harmonious blend of celebration and health.
Fun Exercise Ideas for the Holidays:
1. Holiday Scavenger Hunt:
- Create a list of holiday-themed items and check them off during a walk or run.
2. Christmas Light Tour on Foot or Bike:
- Explore your neighborhood to find the best Christmas light displays on foot or bike.
3. Dance Party:
- Have a dance party in your living room with a holiday-themed playlist.
4. Winter Sports:
- Try ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing for both fun and exercise.
5. Charity Run or Walk:
- Participate in a holiday-themed charity run or walk organized by local organizations.
6. Outdoor Adventure:
- Go on a winter hike or nature walk to enjoy the winter scenery and fresh air.
7. Holiday Yoga or Pilates:
- Find online classes with holiday-themed routines to improve flexibility and strength.
8. Family Fitness Challenge:
- Create a friendly competition with family or friends, setting fitness goals like the number of steps.
9. DIY Obstacle Course:
- Set up an indoor or outdoor obstacle course using holiday decorations.
10. Santa Fun Run:
- Dress up as Santa or other holiday characters and join a festive run in your community.
11. Virtual Fitness Classes:
- Join virtual fitness classes with a holiday theme offered by many instructors.
12. Active Gift Wrapping:
- Incorporate squats or lunges while standing to turn gift-wrapping into a mini workout.
Remember, choose activities you genuinely enjoy to make staying active a festive part of your holiday celebrations. Mixing it up keeps your routine fun, fresh, and more manageable to stick with.
Wishing you a joyful and active holiday season!
©2023ProgressiveHealth References: (1) 2020 physical activity guidelines for Americans. US Department of Health and Human Services website. Available at: https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf (2) The Surgeon General’s call to action to prevent and decrease overweight and obesity. US Department of Health and Human Services’ Surgeon General website. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK44206