Hello friends!
It has been a while and things are getting INSANE busy. However, we have one of the most greatest gifts upon us coming before finals; THANKSGIVING!! Then a few more weeks and boom — the semester is over. Time has flown by and these next few weeks are about to come fast and furious. However, I am not just talking about papers, tests, sports, job shifts, but the HOLIDAYS. This is the time of year when everything starts to really pick up, yet our gym time (and healthy eating choices) dwindles. Life happens — you pick Aunt Jill up from the airport, go see a few old high school friends, spend hours in a car or plane and when it’s all said and done you are simply exhausted. The good news? I and some other HRC staff members are going to try to help you indulge and enjoy, yet maintain your fitness goals this holiday season. Using these three steps, staying on track will seem more of like a habit than a hassle.
Food is one of our key barriers to staying on track!
Holiday Survival Guide 2012
Step 1: Establish Your Settings
Whether traveling or staying home this season, if you make yourself aware of the environment — the company, the food, the activities, gym access, etc., you will be more likely to find some sort of routine. By figuring out portion sizes serves (and types of foods served), you can tell when to say, “No more for me, thanks,” or possibly suggest alternatives to a family member when appropriate. If you have trouble making it to gym, ask to take the dog for a walk or see if your cousin wants to go for a run or play a sport to catch up. (For those of you who want a little something more structured, keep reading for some travel workouts!). Just remember… it’s OKAY to indulge, especially on a holiday. However, your family and friends love you and will think you are totally awesome for trying to remain health conscious during this time of year.
2. Identify Your Weaknesses
I will admit it right now — cheesy potatoes and corn pudding are my weaknesses… and I will NOT EVEN GO THERE with sweets. It’s so hard to stay on track — the cheeseball and crackers before meal-time, the actual dinner itself and desserts and other munchies left out afterwards have me overstuffed (and sometimes miserable) by the end of the evening. However, I think it is possible to find that balance of indulging without “bulging.” When it comes to that HUGE slice of pie, try half a slice, and save the other half for tomorrow. If I stop myself before I feel super full, I try to remind myself that this holiday includes one things that you rarely get on other occassions — leftovers! If you are one of those people who have amazing willpower, yet try to find excuses on why not to exercise, grab a family member. Can’t find anyone who is awesome like you? Tell yourself “just 20 minutes.” I guarantee you will feel better after, and you might even want to go a little longer. There’s nothing wrong with always having the BEASTMODE on.
Step 3: Don’t Make Your Plan Overly Structured
Being aware is great, but it should never cause stress; There are plenty of ways out there to nosh, socialize and be merry without feeling deprived. And of course, always always ALWAYS.. listen to your body. If you are sore from yesterdays circuits, take a break; if you feel super full, stop for a little while and gosh darn it if you are craving that piece of pie go ahead and have it (you will be much better off satisfying that one craving rather than trying to compensate for it by munching on everything else!) With proper portion control, you can still enjoy all of your favorite flavors. Even if you are a person who is used to a routine, be prepared for it to be broken… several times. However, that is what makes the Holidays so adventurous and fun — discover new activities, try new recipes and enjoy your family and friends.
