3 Ways to Get Motivated for Holiday Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
For most people, the holidays are the time of year when fitness motivation is at its absolute lowest. Sure, we want to look good in front of family and friends, but we're also bombarded with good food, cold weather, and fun things to do. Who has time to diet and work out? But if you can manage to find a little motivation to work out, you'll be much better off in the long run. So where do we begin? If you need a little help finding the motivation to work out and get fit through the holiday fun, take a look at these tips to try starting today.
Shorten Your Workout
The less time you have to spend on your workout, the more likely you are to do it. It fills you with less dread, less trepidation when you aren't spending hours upon hours breaking a sweat. If you currently run for half an hour, cut it down to 15 minutes when you're already busy. If you normally do five aerobic sessions per week, cut it down to three. It's amazing how much easier it is to work out for a smaller amount of time -- and once the holidays are over, you can slip back into your normal routine with ease.
Join a Group
Sometimes all we need is a little extra motivation. This can be easily accomplished by joining a group for your workouts. Extra people mean extra accountability. Try a new class -- aerobics, yoga, Zumba -- at your local gym. If you're not into the idea of a class, try a challenge of some kind. There are so many challenges locally, online, or even nationwide that can help you work toward a particular goal or cause. If you're better with outside accountability, joining a group may be just what you need.
Say It Aloud
If you're super into social media, try putting your goals and accomplishments out there for all to see. You don't have to brag about it -- just say it. Tell people that you're working to meet a goal, and then document your progress. If you don't want it to be quite so public, then tell someone close to you who will help you stay accountable. Your mom, your spouse, your best friend. Saying it aloud brings a new level of focus and accountability to help you stick with it to the end.
It can feel like such a chore to work out during the holidays. It's the last thing we feel like doing! Use these tips to find and keep new motivation, and you can stay healthy and strong though the holiday fun and beyond.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lafayette, La.