The holidays often test our will power when it comes to sticking to our nutrition and training regimen. When there is constant family obligations, excess food and alcohol, it can be tough not to give in to some of the temptations. While it’s near impossible to avoid all these temptations all together, it is important to put yourself in a position to be as successful as possible. There are a few things that can help you make it through the holiday season without the added weight gain.
- Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time
There is no question that the holiday gatherings are overflowing with food which can quickly lead to overheating unhealthy foods. A simple way to help avoid the overeating is by having a pre-planned healthy meal beforehand. A high-protein snack before arriving at your family gathering can keep you full and steer you away from the tables of food.
- Don’t Focus on the Food
While the holidays are stacked with countless lunches, dinners, and desserts, it is important to remember what the celebrations are all about. Family. Instead of having your main focus being what’s next to eat, focus on spending time with your family and doing activities that don’t revolve around food. This can help you steer clear for the unhealthy foods and overeating while spending time with those you care most about.
- Less Alcohol is Key
When the family parties start to get lively, it is more than common for alcohol to make its appearance. Staying hydrated with lots of water can aid in avoiding the holidays drinks that are heavy in creams, alcohol, sour mixes, etc. Sticking to water, and the simple glass of red wine, are great choices in helping you stick to your nutrition regimen and stay on track with your goals.
- Set Boundaries
With friends and family constantly extending invitations to the next event or gathering, another dessert, or another glass of wine, it is important to consider if these “excess items” are worth your overall well-being. Having set boundaries can help ensure you stick to what you are comfortable with and don’t overextend yourself. Remember, it is okay to say no and put yourself, and your health, first.
- Prioritize your Workouts
Having a proper schedule will always put you in a position to be successful. When the time commitments that come with the holidays start to become overwhelming, it is important to ensure that you are still scheduling in time for yourself. Not only will working out help you in maintaining your regular training, it will act as a breather and stress relief from the hectic holiday schedule. Often, training first thing in the morning can ensure a busy day doesn’t get the best of you later. Not only will these workouts reduce your stress, they will allow you to utilize any excess calories you may have had during a family function the day before.
- Don’t Underestimate Sleep
With the days running extra long, and more exhausting than normal, sleep becomes more important than ever. There’s no denying that a lack of sleep can have a grave impact on your overall health, potential weight gain, and even your immune system. Ensuring you stick to a proper sleeping regimen is vital to making it through the holiday season unscathed. Whether it’s ensuring you stick to a strict sleeping schedule, or picking and choosing the nights you choose to stay up later, giving your body the rest it needs plays a larger role than most think when it comes to keeping their body and mind in tip top shape.
While the holidays can often come with the addition of new bad habits, they can easily be avoided, or minimized, by tailoring your schedule and your mindset to prepare for success.
