The Holiday Season is upon us. To be more accurate weight gain season is upon us and runs straight through to New Year’s.
The next two months bring ample opportunity to indulge, enjoy and expand your waistline. Now is the time to plan for the whirlwind of holiday activities and cheer. So in the calm before the storm, in this moment of clarity, let’s outline a plan that will save you from unwanted holiday weight gain.
1) Put Your Feet to the Fire: Exercise is the first thing to go when the holiday season begins. This year do something drastic. Commit yourself to regular exercise throughout the holiday. Promising yourself that you will exercise is not enough; you need to promise to others so that you will not drop the ball.
· Commit to working with a fitness expert- The perfect solution for a consistent, challenging, and time effective workouts is to work with someone who knows how to help you accomplish your fitness goals. You will get the attention and assistance you need to cruise through the holidays and arrive in 2009 in the best shape of your life.
· Join a group- You simply will not be as effective on your own during holiday season. Joining a group lends accountability.
· Find a serious exercise buddy-Some friends can be a big help while others can pull you down. Choose your exercise buddy carefully. Some things to keep in mind. Do they Share your fitness goals? Are they encouraging? Do they stick with things? Are you at the same fitness level?
2) Cut the Fat: I mean this literally. I'm not going to imply that you shouldn't indulge in any seasonal treats, but think moderation. So often the holidays are used as an excuse to eat until the point of being uncomfortable – would you really miss that bloated feeling? Decide on a few fattening treats to cut out this year.
· At holiday parties load your plate first with greens, vegetables and lean meats before breads and heavier foods. Also drink water with your meal and keep alcoholic beverages to a minimum.
· Watch what you drink, most beverages are filled to the brim with calories. Hot drinks from Starbucks, cocktails at parties and eggnog around a crackling fire-all very enjoyable and all filled with empty calories.
At no other time in the year are we faced with so many sweets. To avoid being a Sugar Scrooge, but without adding pounds to your frame, try the one treat rule, each time you're in a social situation that involves sweets, just eat one, and enjoy your treat slowly.
If you truly want to enjoy the coming festivities without dealing with added pounds it is all in your hands. The key is your mindset. Most people approach the holidays with the mindset that says, “I deserve to indulge and I shouldn't have to exercise since it's the holidays.” This is fine if you don't mind entering 2009 a few pounds heavier, a little less healthy, and with lower energy than ever before. I believe that you deserve better. I believe that you should enter 2009 in better shape than you are today, healthier than you've been in a long time, and with more energy that you thought possible.
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