Ok, I know what you are thinking, enough of the fitness and being healthy stuff- it’s the holidays!! True, BUT… with a little planning you absolutely can make it through December without gaining a pound and losing the strength you’ve worked hard to achieve.
What are the secrets?
My favorite…don’t use the “But it’s the holidays” crutch (sorry if that stings, but its #Truth). You need to schedule your workouts in and set a realistic goal such as committing to 3 days a week. That’s it. Just 3 workouts a week. Even when the in laws arrive. Stay active even if this just means going for a walk some days. This is non negotiable if you are serious about your health and reaching your goals.
Enjoy your splurges- plan for 2 rewards every week, (1 desert, dinner of your choice, glass of wine) especially during the holiday season. Anything less than that is a big challenge. Just be honest with yourself. The other 80% of the time, fill up on fruits & vegetables, beans, whole grains like quinoa and brown rice, chicken, fish, healthy fats and such. You get the the picture. Head on over to my recipe page if you need some ideas.
I realize this may sound backwards, but I’m speaking from many years of experience helping people lose weight and get in shape. You want something doable and not set yourself up for failure (and feeling guilty). You may not drop 20 pounds in 2 months, but you will get results that last. And in my opinion, that’s far more important!
Aim for 70-120 grams of protein per day. Don’t obsess about it, but that’s the goal. Guys need to be on the upper end. Try to spread the protein out over the course of the entire day. Protein is a proven factor in aiding weight loss and building lean muscle mass.
Having a Christmas party? Fast until 2 hours before the party. Drink a protein shake with some almonds or any other fats. That will make you full just before you get there, then you won’t gorge (yet you’ll be able to enjoy yourself).
What about exercise? A little voice inside your head is telling you that you are just too busy. Its telling you that you deserve a break. You don’t have time to drive in to town and go to the gym or follow some random 60-minute extreme exercise DVD 5 days a week. You’re overwhelmed with family, you’re working long hours.
The #1 problem for getting (or staying) in shape is TIME, (or lack of it I say).
But wouldn’t it feel great to start January off in the same shape you were when the holiday season started or knowing that you can still get the benefits without having to put hours into an exercise routine?
My advice. Kick those excuses aside and instead go for the minimalist route. This is a great place to start if you are new to exercise, or as an option if you’re feeling crunched for time. Check out your 3 HIIT Holiday Workout Guide below.
These workouts use 4 exercises or less, and take 20 minutes at the most. You should be able to glance at the workout, turn on the tunes, and get to work.
Click here for your printable pdf: 3 HIIT Workouts
“The secret of success is consistency of purpose.” -Benjamin Disraeli
