The chaos of the holiday season is in full swing and with the snow days last week I feel like I am 10 steps behind. Between the shopping malls and trying to find the perfect gift for everyone on my list, to scheduling family dinners and hosting a handful of Christmas gatherings stress levels are high and time is quickly running out.
Finding time for fitness amidst all the busy-ness may seem like a lost cause. With the sweet treats, late nights and additional stress of the holidays making time for fitness is all that more critical.
Here are some ideas to help you make fitness fit into your schedule.
Schedule your training for early in the day. Get your workout done and out of the way in the day ensures nothing comes between you and your fitness goals. A quick strength training routine or cardio session will make a huge difference in your energy levels for the day.
Dance the night away at holiday parties. Have fun moving to the music, meeting new people and getting all the health benefits of a workout.
Park at the far end of the parking lot. You might not have a choice at the overcrowded shopping mall on the weekends. If you do opt for a spot at the far end of the parking lot and take advantage of an opportunity for a bit of a hike.
Take your fitness outdoors. Stop hibernating indoors and embrace winter. Get off the couch, bundle up the family and make friends with the snow. Have fun making a snowman, building a fort or playing football in the snow. Check out one of the great hills in town with your toboggan or lace up some skates and head down to Anniversary Park or one of the ponds around town.
Be a snow angel. I know, I know we are all tired of shoveling after the blizzard last week. Make shoveling a part of your fitness routine and reap the benefits of a great workout while helping out your neighbours. Remember to lift properly and safely and protect your back.
Fight the post-holiday-meal-blahs, go for a walk and check out all the Christmas lights around your neighbourhood. The whole family will benefit from a brisk walk outdoors while you burn some of the calories you have just eaten.
It can be difficult to continue with your usual routine and find time for training during the busy holidays especially with extended family around. With some thought and planning it is possible to include physical activity in your schedule.
