5 Essential Tips for Staying Healthy During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for festive cheer, family gatherings, and indulging in delicious meals and treats. However, it can also be a time when people neglect their health and wellness, leading to unwanted weight gain and poor lifestyle choices.

To help you stay on track and maintain good health during the holidays, Fitness 19 has compiled a list of 5 essential tips for staying healthy. Whether it's managing your portion sizes, finding time for physical activity, or prioritizing self-care, these tips will provide you with the tools and strategies necessary to navigate the holiday season while still prioritizing your well-being.

By incorporating these tips into your holiday routine, you can enjoy all the festivities without sacrificing your health. So, gather around and learn how to stay healthy and balanced during the most wonderful time of the year! 

Keep Moving

The holidays can be busy and finding time to workout can be challenging. However, it's important to prioritize your health and find ways to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.

This could mean that you only get to Fitness 19 3 times a week rather than 4. On days when you can't get to the gym, even a short 20-minute workout at home or a nice walk around the neighborhood can help you stay active and relieve some stress during the busy holiday season.

Consider waking up a little earlier, scheduling a workout during your lunch break, or even doing a quick workout before bed. Remember, every little bit counts, and staying active will help you feel better both physically and mentally during the holidays. 

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining good health. Water is vital for the body's many functions, including regulating body temperature, aiding in digestion, and transporting nutrients to cells. Proper hydration also helps the body to flush out toxins and waste products.

It is recommended to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day, but individual needs may vary depending on factors such as activity level, climate, and overall health. Dehydration can lead to a range of health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and decreased cognitive function.

Staying hydrated during the holidays can be especially difficult. You may be traveling or drinking more coffee, alcohol, or other beverages that dehydrate you. Keep a water bottle with you or each time you order a drink, order a glass of water as well to help fight this! 

Manage Stress

Many of the things that make the holidays wonderful also can make them stressful.  The pressure to find the perfect gifts, the financial strain of extra expenses, and the expectations of creating the "perfect" holiday experience can all contribute to increased stress during this time of year.

Additionally, family gatherings can bring their own set of challenges, from navigating complex family dynamics to managing conflicting schedules and expectations. The holiday season can also be a difficult time for those who have experienced loss or are dealing with difficult personal circumstances.

We've got several amenities in our clubs that are designed to help you relax and unwind. Spending 15 minutes relaxing in a Wellness Pod, sitting in the HydroMassage chair, or rejuvenating with Red Light Therapy. A little time spent on yourself can go a long way for your health during the holidays!

Get Your Zzzz's

Sleep is always important, and the holidays are no exception! It can be tempting to stay up late and neglect our sleep routine during the holidays, but it's crucial to prioritize rest. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress, weakened immune systems, and reduced energy levels, all of which can negatively impact our holiday experience. 

Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even during the festive season. Your body will thank you for it! 

Outsmart the Buffet

From Thanksgiving to Christmas and even New Year's parties, food is one of the centerpieces.  Whether it's the juicy turkey, savory stuffing, rich gravy, warm mashed potatoes, or sweet pumpkin pie, these traditional dishes bring families and friends together to enjoy the flavors of the season.

From the delightful aromas that fill the kitchen to the colorful array of festive dishes on the table, the holiday season is a time for indulging in delicious meals and creating treasured memories with loved ones.

A big piece of staying fit during this time is to moderate and manage your consumption of all these treats.  It's important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to indulging in treats. It's okay to enjoy them occasionally, but it's also important to balance them with healthier options and regular exercise.

Managing your consumption and being mindful of portion sizes can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle even while enjoying some treats. It's all about finding a balance that works for you. 

There you have it, 5 tips to stay fit and inspired during the holidays! While it’s important to prioritize fitness and wellness during the holidays, it’s also important to be flexible and enjoy yourself. It’s okay to indulge in your favorite holiday treats and take a break from your routine. The key is finding balance and being kind to yourself.

Remember, the holidays are a time to celebrate and enjoy, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t stick to your fitness plan 100% of the time.