Top tips for staying in shape over the festive season

While the run-up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to indulge, it doesn’t mean you have to completely abandon your fitness routine. Although hitting the gym doesn’t feel like a priority, if you keep up exercising you’ll feel the benefits in the long-term – and you’ll be able to enjoy the extra food and drink feeling completely guilt-free!

We take a look at some of the easy ways to stay in shape over the festive season: 

Set aside time to exercise

The festive season brings with it a big change in your normal routine, so if you’re struggling to find the time to work out, try scheduling it first thing in the morning. This way it’s out of your mind for the rest of the day, and you won’t be forced to choose between festive treats or the treadmill.

Stay active

Exercising doesn’t have to be a full hour at the gym – just half an hour a day will do. Try going for a brisk 20-minute walk, a short run or just your favorites in your workout routine.

Eat a balanced diet

This is easier said than done, especially during party season. When preparing healthy meals, add extra portions and store these in the freezer for a diet-friendly alternative to ready meals when you don’t have time to cook.

Try HIIT workouts

If you’re keen to still exercise hard but don’t have as much time, our RAW classes, high intensity interval training (HIIT), is an intense and super effective way of burning calories. Sessions usually last about half an hour, but you’ll work your body to the max for great results.

Set realistic goals

Set objectives you know you can meet, such as 30 minutes of exercise a day, or days off from indulging – this way you will avoid disappointment and stay motivated all the way into the new year.

Stay toned with strength training

If you’re looking to get lean and strong, try to keep up strength training to maintain the muscle mass you’ve worked hard to get. Don’t be tempted to use light weights or focus on cardio – you can burn just as many calories by lifting weights.

Limit your indulgence and stay hydrated

Don’t be too strict on yourself – the festive period is the perfect time to eat, drink and be merry. However in the run-up to Christmas try to limit the days on which you indulge. Salty foods, fizzy drinks and alcohol all play a role in the party season, so make sure to drink eight glasses of water a day so your body stays hydrated. 

Making sure you keep up your fitness routine, even if it’s just making sure you go on your usual after-work three times a week, is vital. Keeping up your exercise will stave off those extra festive treats and keep you healthy; making it easier for your body to fight off viruses and infections and keep you strong.