With finals looming and temperatures dropping, it can only mean one thing– the semester is winding down and we’ll all be on our way home for the much-needed month long break. With it comes holiday parties, gift exchanges, New Year’s resolutions, and catching up with friends. Sometimes it seems like a whirlwind of activities and non-stop business, and your regular fitness routine may get pushed to the back burner over the next month. Here are a few ways to stay healthy and active over the holiday break!
- Eat a small snack, like an apple with a cheese stick, or a handful of almonds, before heading to Grandma’s house for the annual Christmas dinner. This way you’ll be full when arriving and won’t feel the need to nosh on cheese spreads and crackers. Plus you’ll enjoy your dinner more– no more feeling stuffed from the appetizers.
- Consider limiting– it’s the Christmas season afterall so you’re definitely allowed to enjoy all those tasty treats! But don’t forget to pace yourself: eating five cookies, a slice of pie, a brownie, and chocolate covered pretzels all at once may leave you feeling sluggish.
- Fill your plate with colors! This guarantees that you’ll fill up on nutrients and won’t overload on the cheesy potatoes or rolls that leave you feeling hungry.
- If you live somewhere with four seasons, take advantage of the winter! Go skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, or for a hike– anything to get the blood pumping and heart rate up!
- Many gyms will offer New Year’s deals for joining– some of the rates will be the lowest ever– take advantage of all your free time and join a gym! You have four weeks home which is just the right amount of time to get into a routine before coming back to school. You’ll be used to working out and it’ll make it easier to go to the Plex and continue your routine when you return to campus.
- Grab some of your girls and agree to motivate one another to stay healthy! Whether it’s choosing healthier foods, getting more exercise, or taking up yoga, having buddies will make it easier and more fun!
- Drink lots of water– water has countless benefits and this is something that doesn’t require extra time or effort. You’ll feel less bloated and more energized plus there’s tons of recipes for fun DIY flavored water!
Remember you are in control of how you feel and your health, no one else. It’s okay to say no when Grandma offers you the eighth brownie and but it’s also okay to have two helpings of mashed potatoes. Everything in moderation is the key– enjoy the time with your loved ones and make this break the best one yet!
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http://jfit360.com/buddy-up-with-a-friend-to-help-stay-on-track-with-your-fitness-plan/
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/apple-cinnamon-water/