We’ve all been guilty of adding on some extra holiday pounds. It’s the time of year to celebrate with love, family, and happiness—and lots of delicious food! Unfortunately, that food is filled with loads of sugar, carbohydrates, fats, and calories. After the holidays, it’s best to give yourself some tender love and care by focusing on exercise and eating healthy. Find out the best ways to get back on track after the holidays!
Top Five Ways to Combat Winter Weight Gain
The Best New Year’s Resolution: Get Healthy!
- Never go anywhere hungry. Whether you’re grocery shopping, going to a party, or running errands, make sure you eat healthy before you leave. If you get hungry outside of your home, you will most likely overeat and indulge in unhealthy foods. It’s harder to avoid temptation if it’s right in front of you, especially if you’re starving.
- Stay away from alcohol. Not only is it loaded with calories, alcohol can also increase your appetite. Hold off for only special occasions, and always take in moderation.
- Don’t starve yourself. Studies show that low food consumption and crash diets are not only dangerously terrible for your body because they lack nutrients, but they also don’t work because they slow your metabolism. When you decide to eat again, you’ll gain more weight back, and fast!
- Have fun. Try taking up new hobbies or activities—things to keep you from craving unhealthy foods. You’ll distract your mind in a constructive way. Mind over matter!
Stop Making Excuses
Too cold to exercise outside? Don’t like the gym? Find out the best cold-weather workout tips.
- Indulge in winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and hockey. They’re perfect activities that use your muscles in new ways, and can be a great, fun-filled family bonding experience.
- Try a home routine. There are plenty of exercises that can be done inside that work your body just as hard. Take up yoga, Pilates, and aerobics. Use a fitness DVD and your favorite music to get you in the mood and keep you going.
- Make your own gym at home. It may be a good idea to purchase your own workout equipment, such as a treadmill, elliptical machine, or stationary bike. Having it in your house can not only save money, but time driving to the gym, while keeping you motivated.
- Don’t push yourself too much. Winter brings colder air and a higher percentage of sickness. Listen to the signs from your body and stay indoors as much as possible. Cold weather triggers sickness that can keep you from working out even longer.
Take Another Holiday
Do things that you love that double as physical activity. It’s ideal to do something that’s fun, that way you don’t realize you’re exercising! Try winter friendly activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating. While you’re getting away and having fun, you won’t even realize how many calories you’re burning—but you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you return home. When you’re traveling, make sure to carry your own bags, walk to your destinations when possible, and always take the stairs. A little bit goes a long way!
Walking is Winning
Walking is a very easy and versatile workout, especially when you’re really busy. Power walking, high-stepping, climbing stairs, or walking the dog are great ways to build major muscle groups, while breaking a sweat and burning calories. Walk everywhere.
Don’t get stuck in a rut, it’s your time to shine by getting back into shape and starting off the New Year right! Get back on track after the holidays. Start now!
Resources:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/5-tips-to-avoid-winter-weight-gain
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/new-years-resolution-get-fit
http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20131127/exercise-may-not-stave-off-holiday-weight-gain
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/your-holiday-fitness-program?page=2
