American Fitness Professionals & Associates

By Laura O’ReillyWhat: Choosing the right foods and sticking with our exercise routines as we approach the holiday season.

Why: ‘Tis the season to eat, drink and be merry. Who can resist? With extra food consumption and late hours spent socializing we may be taking in lots more calories and exercising less.

Make time: “I can’t exercise. I have to shop. I’m having guests. I have a cocktail party.” Yep. Hectic shopping and social schedules make it hard to find time for exercise. If you make the time, even if only for abbreviated workouts, you will keep your metabolism functioning at peak levels. This will help you burn calories all day long, and keep you in your routine. Some exercise is always better than none.

Cheers: Who can resist eggnog? Buy low fat eggnog, or limit your quantity. If you are drinking alcoholic beverages try those that are less fattening, such as white wine and light beers.

I’ll just pick: Think of all of those extra calories we consume while we absentmindedly munch on chips as we chat with friends and loved ones. Go for the carrot sticks.

Menu choices: Most caterers understand dietary concerns. When planning your own affair ask for lighter foods. The meals can still be delicious and filling without being fattening and unhealthy. When dining out or attending parties, fill up on salads and raw veggies before trying the other foods. You will curb your appetite with healthier foods and eat less of the fattening fare.

 Just one, please: The holidays do come only once a year. The sights and smells of delicious foods are tempting. Go for it- in moderation. Bingeing will only lead to weight gain and disappointment. If we keep this in mind, it will help us make healthy choices.

Water, Water: Drink lots of water. Keeping our body hydrated at all times helps us to eliminate toxins, and keeps our systems in good working order.

Resolutions: By New Year’s Day we have all partied and eaten more than our hearts desire. We make resolutions to lose our spare tires and head to the gym in droves. It doesn’t have to be that way. Staying with a routine year round helps us to avoid post holiday weight gain and the blues that come with it.   

Motivational Tip: Remember, the more you do, the more you can do. One hour of exercise, three to five times a week, will go a long way in giving you the energy and focus you need to keep up with a busy lifestyle. It’ll keep you burning those calories so the holiday weight gain does not creep up on you.  So, if you feel the urge to go for that piece of pecan pie, go for it- then get out and exercise and burn off those extra calories.  Feeling and looking our best, at any age, is a generous reward for our efforts.
Laura O’Reilly is a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Consultant. For fitness tips and questions reach her at www.getfittogo.org