It is that time of the year where Thanksgiving, holiday parties, holiday shopping, and busy schedules detract us from achieving our health and fitness goals.  The average person often gains between 7-10 pounds over this often grueling 6 week period.  My plea to you is to commit to take the steps necessary to not be one of these statistics.  The purpose of this article is to share some simple tips that you can do to make this stressful, busy time of the year a whole lot better.  Start taking the steps today and get a jump start on the holiday health and fitness blues.  Here are my top tips to look and feel fine before '09.
Do something every day.  It can be as little as 20 minutes of dedicated exercise a day, but commit to the frequency of exercise over intensity.  Getting to the gym or starting your workout is often the hardest part.  Once you get going for the day, than you can rev up the intensity.  Do something!!! Workout on Thanksgiving morning.  There is nothing better than getting in a nice "turkey trot" the morning before the feast gets started.  Better yet, take the entire family out and enjoy some "sweat time" together. Weigh in Thanksgiving AM.  Post that weight on your mirror on a sticky note or index card and make sure that number doesn't start creeping too far north. Have a "Burn the Bird" workout on Black Friday AM.  It's time to work off the gluttony.

Eat "healthy" before going out to holiday parties.  Holiday parties are often filled with lots of wine, alcohol, and food.  There is no secret that weight gain comes from taking in more calories than you burn off.  If you eat a "healthy" snack or meal before heading out, you will tend to eat a lot less of the rich food when out. Get rid of the candy.  It seems like there is more candy and junk food sitting around the house than ever.  If it's not there, you can't eat it!

Cut back on the alcohol.  OK, I know it is a festive time of the year and the "spirits" are often flowing.  But alcohol will not help you attain your fitness goals.  Max. of 2 drinks per week (assuming you are of age) and get a designated driver.  Not only will you feel better, you will actually be able to work out the next day and your energy will be so much better.

Keep a journal.  Numbers don't lie and keeping a journal of your food and your exercise often reveals some startling information.  Check out www.caloriecount.com for an example of how you can use a journal to help you attain success. Do a reverse journal.  Create a great week in your journal or on-line and let that serve as your shopping list and guideline for eating and exercise.  This way you will be assured of proper preparation for success and set up a game plan geared for optimal results.

Hire a trainer!  There is nothing like accountability and motivation over a difficult stretch of time.  A qualified, committed trainer will help you not only stay on track, but to make progress during this time.  Imagine actually losing weight and feeling like you are making progress in the months of November and December.  As little as 2 sessions per week for 6 weeks can make a huge impact on your health and fitness.   After the holidays, be sure to consider the New Year; New U Program.  This 6:00 AM class which meets M/W/F is a sure way to continue your progress and conquer your fitness goals.

Try some new fitness classes or new activities to diversify your routine.  Yoga, Pilates, hiking, snow shoeing, snow skiing, etc. are just some examples of how you can get outside your current "box".  I took a yoga class the other day and felt so wonderfully balanced and relaxed the rest of the day.  It was gentle, calming, and just what the doctor ordered.  Try it!

Set weekly goals.  The shorter the time span, the better during this time.  Examples include: strength training 2 times per week for at least 30 minutes and do at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise 3 times per week; don't eat dessert more than 1 evening per week;  keep a food and exercise journal every day this week.

Reward yourself for achieving your goals.  Just don't reward yourself with food.  How about rewarding yourself with a new workout outfit, a great relaxation or sports massage, or some new clothes.

Don't be afraid to say "NO".  Most of us put way too much on our plates (pardon the pun) during this time of the year.  Remember, the reason for the season and focus on living each day to the fullest.  Don't clutter your life with an impossible "To Do" list that will just frustrate you that you can't get everything done.  Set realistic expectations for yourself and do the best you can every day to stay present in the moment. 

 

Realize that you can make progress during this time of the year.  It is going to take effort, persistence, focus, and will power to achieve.  But like anything worthwhile pursuing, these same characteristics will allow you to persevere and overcome.  I wish you a successful beginning to a wonderful time of the year.