Navigating fitness during the holidays can be tricky with all the celebrations, travel, and food-focused traditions. However, with the right approach, you can maintain your health and fitness without feeling restricted or overwhelmed. Here are some strategies to help you stay on track:
1. Set Realistic Goals
The holidays can be busy, so it’s important to set realistic, attainable goals for your fitness routine. Instead of aiming for major progress or changes, focus on maintaining your current fitness level and sticking to some kind of routine—whether it’s workouts, healthy eating, or managing stress. The habits you have built during the course of the year are key to staying successful at the end!
Our coaches are here to help you set realistic goals and create a plan to achieve them this holiday season. Book your Goal Review Meeting here!
2. Plan Your Workouts Around Your Schedule
The holiday season often means traveling, family gatherings, and busy schedules. Planning ahead is the most important part to staying on track. At the beginning of the week, find the times you will be able to work out and block them on your calendar like you would other appointments. If you are out of town make use of travel-friendly options. This may include hotel gyms, bodyweight exercises (like push-ups, squats, lunges), drop-in sessions at another gym, or even just walks! Bodyweight exercises can be done anywhere—hotel rooms, relatives’ homes, etc. There are a myriad of apps and YouTube videos that can also provide structure for quick and effective workouts while on the go. If you need extra accountability – find a friend who will motivate you to stay consistent OR work with a trainer who will meet you for your workouts!
FTX has a robust class schedule plus 24/7 private gym access for members to help with the schedule shuffle this holiday season! We’re here, when you need us!
3. Be Mindful of Food and Drink Choices
Holiday meals often center around indulgent, calorie-dense foods, but you can still make mindful choices without completely depriving yourself. Maintain focus on wins such as: getting in your daily protein intake, stocking up on fruits and vegetables, and listening to your body’s hunger signals. You should expect to have some meals that are not on track – and that’s ok! Remember, during the holiday season – maintaining is a great option.
We are always happy to help you with nutrition questions! Check out more about our nutrition program here. We are happy to share some tips & tricks for his holiday season with you for free!
4. Be Kind to Yourself & and Enjoy the Season
If you miss a workout, eat a little more than you intended, or don’t follow your usual routine—don’t stress about it! Fitness is a long-term journey, and the holidays are just a small portion of the year. Focus on progress, not perfection. If you slip up, simply get back on track the next day without giving up completely. One day or one meal isn’t going to undo all your progress. It is normal to relax and have some fun during the holiday season! Focus on the aspects of the season that are important to you – whether that means socializing with family and friends, participating in traditions, or just taking some time off!
5. Schedule Rest and Recovery
The holidays can be physically and mentally exhausting. Make sure you’re allowing time for recovery and taking care of your mental health. While workouts might provide a needed time away from the hustle and bustle, remember that rest days are also critical to success. This is especially key when you are fatigued from the stress of the holidays. Listen to your body and plan to deload during the festive season.
One way to unwind is to treat yourself to a Fascial Stretch Therapy appointment with Coach Jimmy! Book your Free 15 Min Session here. You deserve a treat!
Final Thoughts
While the holidays can throw off your usual routine, it’s important to be flexible and enjoy the season without guilt. With a balance of movement, mindfulness, and moderation, you can navigate the holiday fitness challenge and emerge feeling good—both physically and mentally. Need help creating a plan for how to stay on top of it? Book a free intro with our Coaches!