How To Stay Active During The Holidays

The holidays are often a hectic time. Planning activities, decorating, and buying gifts can take up so much energy that staying active often seems like a far-off dream. It doesn't have to be that way, though. With a few wellness tips in mind, you can incorporate exercise into your holiday events without needing a certified personal trainer.
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For more information about how to stay healthy during the holiday season, call us here at David L. Curtis, PT, located in Westport, CT at (203) 247 2143.

Make Time with Family Members Active

​You'll be spending a lot of the winter season with your family and friends, so turning some of that time into workouts can be a fun diversion. Invite your family out on a walk to enjoy the morning or take an evening stroll.

Arrange a Photoshoot

A photoshoot may not be intense physical activity, but it's certainly better than nothing. You or someone else can bring their camera to snap some festive shots of everyone. It's a fun way to enjoy everyone's company while you stay fit.

Plan Ahead

Just make sure that you plan for everyone's skill level. If you're including young children or older adults, you might need to focus less on going quickly and more on finding convenient places to stop and rest. No matter how slow you take it, you're still getting exercise.

Visit the Local Park

Hitting the gym isn't the only way to work on your fitness. Going for a walk around your local park is a fun way to spend an afternoon during the holidays when everyone is together. Plus, you'll be setting a great example for younger relatives on how to stay active in life. Try going during the week to avoid the crowds.

Check Out the Zoo

If you've been missing your workouts but need to spend time with everyone for the holidays, look up your closest zoo. Plenty of zoos have special holiday events, even at night. Check online for their holiday schedule and book tickets in advance. You and your friends can roam around taking pictures of exotic animals while you get that workout in.

Shop at the Mall

While the mall may be jam-packed during the holiday season, it's never too late to finish shopping. Walking around the mall for a few hours is actually a great way to get some steps in. Try taking some friends on a shopping trip and enjoy the walk.

Go on a Tour

If you and your loved ones are traveling for the holidays, take advantage of the new scenery. Book a walking tour or two around your destination. Not only will you get some exercise in, but you'll also have a blast learning about the place you're visiting.

Consider Everyone's Needs

Make sure that you schedule tours that are accessible for your whole family. Booking a tour designed for someone with a high fitness level likely won't go over well with Grandma and Grandpa. As long as you keep track of everyone's health, you're going to have a fantastic time.

Go Abroad or Stay at Home

You don't need to go anywhere special for a tour, either. A staycation is the perfect time to get out and see what makes your hometown special. You don't have to do something every day if you want to sleep in, but exploring your town can be a ton of fun. You might find some places you never knew existed.

Give the Gift of Workout Clothes

Staying fit doesn't have to mean wearing old baggy sweats. If you and a family member are committed to improving your health with a workout routine, then why not agree to give them some awesome activewear? Having some clothes you feel good in can motivate you both to stick to your fitness routine.

Take a Family Bike Ride

Instead of eating more at the holiday party, invite your loved ones to join you on a communal bike ride. It's a great way to maintain your exercise routine and get everyone excited for fitness. There are even places where you can rent tandem bikes if you want to really bond with everyone.

Healthy Eating Habits

Your health is tied to your weight, which means you need to be careful at parties and other events. However, you shouldn't deny your cravings. Just ensure that you eat the foods you want in moderation. When you satisfy your urge for your favorite holiday dishes, you won't lose control and binge eat later.

More Holiday Season Wellness Tips

The American Council of Exercise recommends focusing on small lifestyle changes to stay fit. With all of that in mind, why not contact us at David L. Curtis, PT, located in Westport, CT at (203) 247 2143 for a consultation? We'll give you the gift of a healthy life!