It’s the holiday season and we all know what that means… indulgent meals and drinks, cosy nights, and busy schedules! During this time of year it’s easy to let your fitness slide, but following some Christmas fitness tips can help you stay active and on track with your goals. Staying consistent with regular exercise can make you feel energised, beat seasonal stress, and even give your immunity a boost for those exciting parties.
Holiday Workout Moves to Keep You Active
Our own Olympian Sarah Lindsay, owner of Roar Fitness gyms, has designed a simple yet effective workout you can do at home or at the gym. The plan is structured into five pairs of exercises that work the entire body while raising your heart rate. Each pair should be completed for two sets with a 45-second rest between rounds. Beginners should aim for 15-20 reps, while experienced lifters can use heavier weights for 10-12 reps.
Pair 1: Deadlift & Dumbbell Chest Press
These moves target your hamstrings, glutes, and chest, building strength and improving posture.
Pair 2: Front Foot Elevated Split Squat & Seated Shoulder Press
This combination strengthens your lower body and builds upper body power. The split squat is particularly effective for improving balance and coordination.
Pair 3: Hip Thrust & Single Arm Row
Activate your glutes with hip thrusts and sculpt your back with single-arm rows. These exercises are great for building strength and toning your physique.
Pair 4: Seated Bicep Curl & Weighted Lying Tricep Extension
Arm definition is the goal here. These moves isolate your biceps and triceps, helping you achieve sculpted arms.
Pair 5: Plank & Weighted Dead Bug
End the workout with core-strengthening moves. Planks build stability, while the dead bug improves balance and coordination.
Christmas Fitness Tips for Healthy Eating
Staying fit this Christmas isn’t just about exercise – your diet plays a key role too. With festive temptations everywhere, it’s important to strike a balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Foods to Avoid:
- Pastries and Creamy Dips: These are often high in fat and calories.
- Alcohol: Drinks like Baileys (157 calories per 50ml) and eggnog (224 calories per cup) can quickly add up.
- High-Calorie Snacks: A handful of caramelised nuts (148 calories) or a slice of Christmas cake (350 calories) can derail your efforts.
Foods to Enjoy:
- Lean Meats: Turkey and chicken are excellent protein sources.
- Vegetables: Load up on roasted veggies for fibre and nutrients.
- Festive Alternatives: Crudités with salsa, smoked salmon, or fruit desserts make for healthier choices.
Sarah suggests sticking to good eating habits, like filling up on vegetables and prioritising protein. This will keep you full longer and help curb cravings.
Tips to Stay Motivated
It’s easy to lose motivation during the holidays, but these strategies can keep you on track:
- Set Realistic Goals: Focus on maintaining your current fitness level rather than achieving new milestones.
- Schedule Your Workouts: Treat them like appointments you can’t miss.
- Reward Yourself: Celebrate small wins, like completing a workout or choosing a healthy snack over a sugary one.
Why a Balanced Approach Works
Remember, staying fit this Christmas doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. It’s about making mindful choices and finding ways to incorporate activity into your routine. Even short, 30-minute workouts or brisk winter walks can make a difference.
By keeping up with these Christmas fitness tips and holiday workout moves, you’ll head into 2025 feeling stronger, healthier, and more energised – without the post-holiday guilt.
So, keep those trainers handy, embrace the season with balance, and stay fit this Christmas!