Author: be well™ with Big Y^® Registered Dietitian Team

Making the days between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve work for you.

How are your pants fitting these days? The change of weather and the beginning of the holiday season can sidetrack the eating habits of the best of us — even registered dietitians. With the upcoming weeks being centered around indulgent food, focus on moving your body more. Pivoting your attention can be the unsung hero of the holiday season.

Here are our tips for making the 28 days between Thanksgiving and the Christmas holiday great for your health, stress level and waistline.

#1. Get Outside

It may be getting colder and getting dark earlier…but you still have days of sunlight to warm you up when you bundle in layers and head outside. Whether taking a slow stroll, snowshoeing after the first snowfall or adventuring a snowy run, the crisp, fresh air and vitamin tree, will do your body, sanity and soul good!

#2. Attend Classes

Remote from home or in person, opting into an aerobics or yoga class can do wonders for your mood. Additionally, not only will you get your heart pumping, your muscular strength and flexibility will benefit — all essential for overall fitness. Tip: Muscle burns more calories than fat, so beginning strength train during the holidays will help burn excess calories even when you’re resting.

#3. Sign Up for the Gym

Depending on your comfort level during this phase of the pandemic, signing up for a gym membership during the holidays will get you into a workout habit before the rest of the world decides to jump in come January 1st.

At the gym, test a variety of cardio machines to see what you enjoy most — you don’t want to dread working out. Take advantage of orientations to become acquainted with the machines to learn your specific settings and how to properly use them.

If available, consider working with a certified personal trainer (CPT). A personal trainer with certification through reputable organizations like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), American Council on Exercise (ACE) and National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), will acquaint you with more tools at the gym, like free weights, and tailor your workout directly to your body type and goals.

Whichever direction you take, or if you lean into all three recommendations above, be sure to receive the green light from your healthcare provider before beginning a new workout program.

Good Luck and Happy Holidays!

For more health & wellness tips, contact our be well^™ with Big Y^® Registered Dietitian Team.

Reviewed 11/28/2022