Working Out With Some Holiday Spirit

By Donna Stark

Halloween and Thanksgiving have both come and gone, and now we are heading into the third round of holiday celebrations. This one though, is arguably the worst because it seems to last the entire month, and with a month full of delicious holiday treats to consume, what's a person to do? Well, you continue to do what you always do. You head to the gym! But unless the gym has holiday decor hanging on its machines and fluffy snow falling from the ceiling, it can be pretty ho-hum, can't it? So why don't you switch your fitness routine up a little bit and bring some of that holiday spirit to your workouts? It's easy. Take a look at the following suggestions.

Sign Up for a Holiday 5K

Jingle Bell Jogs, Reindeer Runs, Tiny Tim Trots ... whatever they are called, there is certainly no shortage of holiday 5K runs this time of year, so find one that is being held close to you and sign up! It's a great way to challenge yourself, keep up with your training, bond with family and friends, and ward off your holiday weight gain. On top of that, you may even be able to help support a favorite local charity!

Follow a Holiday Workout Calendar

These holiday countdown calendars can be found online or at your local gym and are simply a way to spice up your workouts. Just like the 12 Days of Christmas song, they count down from day to day, with each day offering something new to add to your workouts. But be prepared! As the days go by, your workouts increase in intensity, so be prepared for some serious sweat sessions!

Bring Your Own Holiday Music

The holidays can be a very busy and stressful time, so turn to what always works ... music! Only don't rely on your normal playlist, create a new one filled with your favorite holiday tunes! There is no better way to get your jam on during a workout than to listen to songs about Santa jumping on the roof of your house! Just be careful though, because if you sing too loudly, you may inspire those around you to join in!

Bring That Holiday Spirit

Don't let the stacks of cookies and lack of holiday spirit at your local gym bring you down! Keep on working out during these last few weeks and plan on rocking in the New Year feeling totally fit and fabulous! Happy holidays!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodbury, Minn.