Content provided in partnership with
Staying fit through the holidays
Ebony, Nov, 2004
THE difficulty in trying to lose weight or trying to maintain after losing weight is tough, and during major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and Kwanzaa, it gets tougher because it's easy to get caught up in the food, folks and fun.
But experts say it doesn't have to be that way. There are ways to stay fit and fabulous throughout the holiday season. With a little planning, a lot of commitment and the willingness to accept your mistakes, you can come out ahead of the dreaded "holiday weight."
The first thing to do is to understand that November and December are generally the most difficult months in terms of dieting and exercise, says Ryan Gentles, a massage therapist and personal trainer in Brooklyn, N.Y. Food, stress and cold weather can hamper your stay-fit focus.
- Most Popular Articles in News
- The Ten Best Laptop bags
- Tata plans cheapest-ever car for Indian market
- GLOBALIZATION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF UNDERDEVELOPMENT OF THE THIRD WORLD
- Corn is good for you; Corn is not only a tasty treat, but also a cereal that ...
- THE 50 BEST STYLISH HANDBAGS TO CARRY
- More »
"That's when you're getting together with family and celebrating time holidays, so people are cooking more and enjoying themselves more," says Gentles, owner of Zion Wellness in Brooklyn. "And some people are depressed, and they might eat [to cope with that]. It's a stressful time."
It's important to remember, though, that you don't have to starve yourself to get through the holidays. A sensible eating and exercise plan can help you avoid overeating. Christian Keyes, a personal trainer in Grand Rapids, Mich., says you have to eat healthfully--skipping meals is not the answer to holiday weight gain.
"When the holiday season is coming up, keep an eye on your eating and exercise habits," says Keyes, who has been a trainer for six years. "It's the best time to be a little more strict with your [fitness plan]. It'll become a habit and carry you through the winter."
Keyes suggests that those concerned about their weight should be reasonable about weight loss and maintenance goals. Write down your fitness plan and strategies specifically for the holiday period.
In writing down those goals, experts say you should remember to schedule a light breakfast and spread three meals and one or two snacks throughout the day. "That's one key to staying fit through the holidays," Keyes says.
Another problem you may have in staying fit through the holidays is the difficulty in planning meals and exercising when there are parties to attend and a grueling shopping schedule. One solution? Instead of eating a lot of mystery foods or hounding the host for the total number of calories and carbs, eat healthfully before the event. That way you are less likely to overeat and eat the wrong things, nutritionists say. Also, when you're shopping, try to set a brisk pace to get your heart rate up.
Experts strongly suggest that you take it easy on yourself during the holidays. Remember to eat well and joyfully--within reason.
"A good philosophy is to reward yourself. Even I do it," Keyes says. "I give myself a treat day. I reward myself [because] I've earned it ... I'm going to eat well on Thanksgiving and Christmas."
And if you happen to go overboard, get back on course right away. Add an extra day of cardio or intensify/your workout. Don't let one slip ruin your entire weight-loss life. Don't let food keep you from having a good time.
"I wouldn't stress out about it, just try and maintain and enjoy yourself," says Gentles of New York. "The holidays are supposed to be a time to enjoy your family and friends."
Holiday Weight Maintenance Tips
If you're concerned about maintaining or continuing a weight-loss regimen during the holiday season, the following tips may make it easier:
1. Don't miss breakfast, which kick-starts your metabolism and helps burn calories.
2. Establish a cut-off time of about 7:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. for eating, even during a family gathering.
If you need a treat later in the evening, then eat fruits such as mangoes and peaches.
3. Start with a short set of goals and a workable plan, and move on up from there. As you achieve your goals, revise your schedule as necessary.
4. If you don't already have one, consider investing in a health club membership or joining a class. Working out with other people may be easier than going it alone.
5. Avoid bad habits and taking shortcuts. You've worked hard for so long, see it through to the end of the year. And then set new fitness goals.
6. Don't sweat the small stuff. If you slip up, move on.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group
