How to Stay Fit and Balanced During the Holiday Season
Here are some expert tips from Chuze Fitness’ senior fitness director on staying active and healthy during the holidays
As the holiday season quickly approaches, so does the stress, holiday parties and high-calorie desserts. Even the most dedicated fitness and wellness fans can find it challenging to stay on track this time of year, but Diana Gilbert, senior director of fitness at Chuze Fitness, has valuable tips to keep the holidays healthy and active.
Remaining motivated to work out during such a busy time of the year is no small feat, but Gilbert says that carving out time for fitness pays off in several ways for clients and members.
“The options for workouts are endless and will support your well-being with increased energy, improved mood, better sleep and decreased stress,” she says. “Not every workout must be hours long, sweat-producing and muscle-fatiguing, but being intentional about staying active is!”
Devoting time to creating a “movement and mindset menu” can also help those who feel overwhelmed this time of year, Gilbert says.
She suggests the following “menu”:
Appetizer – Get your body moving for a 10-20 minute duration
- Enjoy a brisk walk outside, dress accordingly, and take a friend.
- Do a series of light stretching movements, breathing deeply in and out. Your joints will thank you as you feel your body waking up.
- Set a timer and complete a series of three bodyweight exercises for ten repetitions each, repeating until your timer beeps. Try squats, lunges, and burpees together; they’ll surely get your heart pumping.
Main Course – Give yourself the gift of time
- Take your favorite class format at the gym – dance, strength, kickboxing, yoga or Pilates classes. Or try the excellent option of hybrid fitness. This trend encourages us to choose our workout destination. You can find your favorite class on a virtual site and work out at home or hit the gym for your class.
- Try another fun trend, “Cozy Cardio,” that may bring you a smile. This approach to cardio has a more laid-back vibe, which is very appropriate for the busy season as well!
Dessert – Treat yourself to a positive mindset about exercise
- Remember always that some movement is far better than no movement. The joy and satisfaction of completing a workout, no matter how short, are steps taken towards staying active during the holidays and a healthier and happier you.
- Create a personal timeline and track your winter workouts. If you usually shoot for three weekly workouts and set your Nov-Dec goal to 2 days, go digital and track on your wearable. Do we risk going old school and placing a smiley face sticker on our paper calendar when we mark a day’s workout time? The things that motivate us are very personal. Find yours!
- Reward yourself at the end of your timeline with a new pair of tights, running shoes, or a fitness wearable to track your progress in the new year.
Gilbert also emphasizes the importance of hydration during the holidays, along with proper nutrition.
“Even amidst all the tasty and festive drinks, make water your first-choice fluid,” she advises. “Drink plenty of water in the winter months. Keep your water bottle filled and at your fingertips. It won’t let you down and will help maintain your body’s regulation.”
When it comes to holiday gatherings, Gilbert suggests filling your plate with healthy foods such as fruits and veggies but giving in—in moderation.
“If that treat is calling your name, enjoy a small serving,” she says.
In addition to engaging in movement and nourishing food options, Gilbert encourages consistency and finding quiet time at the end of the day.
“Prioritize your sleep by keeping your bedtime routine as close to normal as possible,” she says. “If you generally go to bed at 10 pm and wake up at 6 am, keep it up.”
Most importantly, Gilbert says that finding balance is key during the holidays.
“Your workout routine may feel tried and your motivation tested, so find it in the season itself,” she says. “You do not have to abandon your workout routine completely to enjoy what the season offers.”
Chuze Fitness, a West Coast-born high-value, low-priced gym chain with locations in California, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico, acquired Florida-based Bailey’s Health & Fitness last year.
Courtney Rehfeldt has worked in the broadcasting media industry since 2007 and has freelanced since 2012. Her work has been featured in Age of Awareness, Times Beacon Record, The New York Times, and she has an upcoming piece in Slate. She studied yoga & meditation under Beryl Bender Birch at The Hard & The Soft Yoga Institute. She enjoys hiking, being outdoors, and is an avid reader. Courtney has a BA in Media & Communications studies.