Don’t let holiday shopping get in the way of losing weight! The most important thing you can do for yourself this season is to stick to your workout routine. No matter how busy we get, we should still make time for at least one class or a cardio and strength training workout. Map out your workouts in advance and stick to them!
This Friday is Black Friday, the day when many of us hit the department stores to take advantage of holiday discounts. Why not turn your shopping trips into an opportunity to burn extra calories? Here are some ideas for you:
- If you’re driving, park far away from the store. Don’t look for the closest spot, look for the farthest! That extra walking will really add up if you do this throughout all of your holiday shopping over the course of the month. Remember that every little bit of extra physical activity you do will help you avoid weight gain and will promote weight loss!
- Wear a pedometer to keep track of how many steps you are walking. Pedometers are very affordable and can be found anywhere. (For instance, you can order them online at Amazon.com for $15-$30.) It’s said that your average steps should be 10,000 per day. During holiday season, shoot for 15,000 or more to stay fit!
- Eat a snack or small meal before you go shopping. Don’t be tempted by the smell of pretzels, Cinnabons, and all those other high-fat, high-carb snacks that are easily accessible all over the mall. Remember that everything you eat–every latte or snack–is additional calories you have to burn off. By eating a high-fiber, healthy snack or meal before going out, you will be less likely to crave dangerously high calorie snacks.
If you need the motivation to stick to these holiday tips, then grab a friend who is as active as you and who has the same goals. Make a pact to each other to stay fit during the holidays. You can even go shopping together!
Now, are you ready for a holiday challenge? I’d like each of you to add an additional 15 minutes of workout to your routines each day from now till January 1! Make this season about you, and do not let the extra pounds sneak on. Just this small challenge will help you cut back on calories and stay motivated. Let’s do this! Whose in?
Recipe by Midge Pileggi, class instructor and personal trainer at Lucille Roberts Roosevelt Blvd. in Philadelphia, PA.
