How to Hang Onto Workouts Over the Holidays

If you are like me, you are already feeling the busy-ness of the end-of-year holidays! Oh yes, that time of year when we eat too much, and have more work, shopping, errands, and traveling than usual, all with getting less sleep.

So, the big question: How can I keep my healthy habits over the holidays?

Well, no magic answers here. For many of you, trying to keep your workouts and good eating habits, etc, will cause you more stress than letting yourself go a little. I think that the two best things to focus on over the holidays are to get as much sleep as you can and drink a lot of water. Stress and travel are both dehydrating, so drinking lots of water will help your body deal with stress. Additionally, we sometimes overeat when we are actually dehydrated, so, drinking water will help you eat less over the holidays.

Regarding your workouts, it is actually beneficial for your body to take breaks from working out from time to time. I usually take 7-10 days off of doing a weighted workout over the holidays. But, I do some basic joint exercises/mobility drills each day and take at least a few 20-30 min walks (yes, even when I'm in Iowa and it is brisk outside - I just bundle up with lots of clothes!).

Best of luck for warm, restful, and joyous end to 2007!