Fitness Motivation for the Holidays

by Debbie Whitehead, ACPT

 

            Let’s face it, staying motivated is tough, even at the best of times. The holidays are here with full force, offering many of us the not-so-merry gift of weight gain. We all have hectic schedules and issues to deal with, but our health is the one constant we have to work on every day, even through the holidays.

            Ask yourself what inspires you. Do you need more energy to keep up with your kids, or to exercise so that you can fit into that new outfit to look extra fit at the high school reunion? Maybe it’s health issues brought on by weight gain. The list could go on and on.

            Motivation comes from getting excited about something! It’s taking one thing at a time and, before you know it, you’re where you want to be. Yes, you will make a mistake or two, but just shake it off and keep moving forward! Focus on progress, not being perfect!

            Smaller goals are easier, like losing two pounds a week, or for every 10 pounds you lose, you get a massage or a new workout outfit. You have to be patient with yourself. During the holidays, it’s easy to lose your focus on fitness. There will be well-meaning friends making this more difficult, saying things like, “just one won’t hurt,” or “life is too short to not have what you want.” Those small indiscretions can set you back.

            Moderation is key! Of course, eating healthy is the optimum way to go, but have a small piece of pumpkin pie, or just a little bit of  gravy on those mashed potatoes — just don’t go back for seconds. It’s all about portion control. The idea of eating smaller, more frequent meals shouldn’t be ignored. The body can use only 300 to 500 calories at a time. Consume more than that and the body begins storing fat. Smaller meals will keep energy levels more stable with less blood sugar highs and lows.

            Then get active — put on some holiday music and dance around your living room. Put on you iPod and walk around your neighborhood. Think about how much better you will feel physically and emotionally when you’ve taken charge of your decision to have a healthier holiday.

            There are many fitness tools to help stay motivated. A personal trainer will certainly be able to keep you going in the right direction.  There is usually success in the buddy system.  Bring a friend along who may also want to make some changes for the new year.  Join a gym or start a walking program. Find your niche — maybe a group class is more to your liking. Just dedicate yourself to whatever program you choose.

            The most important tool we have is journaling, and it’s free!  I know the eyes are rolling back as you read this, and it may seem like just one more thing to do, but we have to be accountable for the calories going in. It really stops mindless eating when you see it in black and white.

            We are all in this together. We can encourage each other to be the best we can be at any age. Trash the negative thoughts that might be holding you back from reaching your full potential. Trust in your body no matter what your fitness level! With a bit of restraint and a little more exercise you can still enjoy the holidays. n