Well here we are again! It’s that holiday time of year where our schedules and stress are at full capacity.
You know you need to workout but how do you find the time or motivation to do it? Especially when your schedule is full of shopping, parties, family time and holiday food?
Usually the first thing to always take a back seat is your fitness. But did you realize that exercise will actually help lessen your stress and anxiety? Exercise is an act of self care and all of us need to take care of ourselves, most importantly when stress levels are high during the holidays.
Here are a few you ways you can make exercise a part of your self care practice during the holidays and everyday.
JOIN A GROUP CLASS
Do you usually go it alone? Now is a great time time to consider trying a group class. Let an instructor lead you in the workout so all you have to do is get yourself to the gym and workout.
The best part is that you get to enjoy working out together, it’s usually only an hour class and it’s fun! No thinking required. Just show up for your class and go!
CHANGE UP YOUR EXERCISE ROUTINE
Have you been doing the same fitness routine? Maybe it’s time to change it up! It’s pretty awesome how well your body will adapt to a change just by simply changing your exercise routine.
Have you been doing the same thing for awhile? Try a spin class, or a CrossFit class or go jump on a trampoline!
It’s a win win for you mentally and physically to change it up.
FIND A FRIEND TO WORKOUT WITH
One word…Accountability.
When you commit to working out with a friend, you hold each other accountable.
Following through is one of the best ways to stay committed to your exercise schedule.
Even if it is something as simple as a walk, call your friend and make a date to exercise together!
You are less likely to cancel out on a friend than you would on yourself, so call your friend and make a commitment to workout together today.
HIRE A PERSONAL TRAINER
Serious about staying committed to your fitness goals? Hire a personal trainer.
They can help you with form, technique and even pushing you a little harder than you would push yourself.
Personal trainers are great motivators to keep you on task especially on those days when you feel like hitting the snooze button.
START A JOURNAL ABOUT YOUR FITNESS & WELLNESS
Sometimes it helps to see your progress written so you can see where you started and how far you’ve come. When it comes to tracking fitness, it can be incredibly motivating.
Record all the small wins. What day you exercised, what you did, how long and how you felt after doing the exercise.
On the days when self motivation is low, read your journal and be reminded of your progress. Seeing your accomplishments on paper might be the thing to keep you staying consistent.
Even recording the small wins, documenting your progress and thoughts will give you the boost to keep going.
But, whatever you do, don’t quit. Don’t lose the momentum you started. Even if your exercise session is not epic, the positive effects of exercise will impact you and your wellbeing far greater than doing nothing at all.
Find the exercise, the friends and the support to help you stay fit during the holidays because your act of self care will benefit you and everyone around you.
Happy holidays!
