THE PULSE

You’ve worked hard all year to stick to healthy habits but the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can lead you down a slippery slope. Ugly sweater parties, gingerbread decorating evenings, hot chocolate and caroling, or neighborhood potlucks can derail even the most dedicated. So, we’ve pulled together our top five tips to keep you on track all holiday long.

1. Get to the gym in the morning

It can be tempting to sleep in every morning (especially if you’re on vacation), but with full days and lots of family and friends to catch up with, that well intended afternoon workout can easily get pushed aside. So, make it a priority to get up early, before everyone else wakes up and log those miles, lift those weights, or swim those laps.

2. Make it a family affair

Family in town for the holiday? A workout buddy makes it easier to roll out of bed on those cold mornings AND keeps you accountable. Recruit someone to join you for a run or a walk, or grab a guest pass to the club. Plus, with The Elevate Package, you can take a guest to the club with you Thursday – Sunday. Exercising together enables you to stay active while spending time with loved ones. Win-win for all!

3. Prioritize indulgences

What would the holidays be without a few delicious indulgences? Don’t deprive yourself, but plan what you indulge in and what you can live without. So, while that glass of eggnog may be tempting, you know deep down it is really Grandma’s famous Christmas cake that you can’t live without. Pick one, enjoy every bite of it, and try to exercise and eat well the rest of the day.

4. Use your body weight

If you’re traveling and can’t make it to the gym, use your bodyweight to keep your gains coming. Lunges, squats, push-ups, burpees, triceps dips and crunches can make up a great ‘do anywhere’ workout.

5. Stress less

The hustle and bustle and the endless to do list around the holidays can stress even the most relaxed of us out. Take time for yourself by trying a yoga class, or maybe a cardio pumping cycling class, to release some of that tension. A good book and a relaxing bath also work wonders. Carve out some time for whatever it is that de-stresses you best so you’re in the right frame of mind to deal with your in-laws.