Keeping Fit During Feasting Times

By Brandi Swieter

Keeping fit is difficult for many people during the holidays. So much time is dedicated to family, decorating, gift wrapping, cooking, and other festivities that people tend to forgo their daily exercise routines. With much of the holidays revolving around food, it's more important than ever to keep up with exercise and stay in shape. Keeping fit during feasting times where people tend to overeat is possible as long as everyone makes the effort to fit into their schedule. 

Schedule Time

Finding the time to exercise may seem difficult, but looking at the calendar and scheduling time can prove helpful. It may mean waking up a half-hour earlier or squeezing a walk in during lunch to get the time in. Whatever works, individuals need to find the time somewhere so they can burn calories, strengthen their bodies, and improve their overall health. 

Choose Stairs Over Elevators

Much of the holidays are spent shopping, searching for the perfect gifts for everyone on the list. When heading to the mall, people need to be sure to skip the elevator or escalator and take the stairs instead. This is an easy way to incorporate some additional exercise into the day without having to put forth much effort. Going up and down the stairs will burn more calories than simply standing on an elevator and being transported to the destination. 

Plan Physical Family Games

When families get together for their celebrations, the focus shouldn't solely be on the meal. Families can enjoy their time together by planning out a game. Choosing physical games will ensure everyone has the opportunity to get up and work up a sweat. It can be something as simple as playing catch in the backyard or throwing and dodging snowballs. 

Indoor games, such as a blind Christmas scene drawing, can be tried as well. Participants have to draw a Christmas scene on a paper plate. The trick is that the plate needs to be on top of the head. The person with the best picture wins. This game uses a lot of arm strength so everyone should be sure to stretch out before starting. Winners may earn a special prize to make it more worthwhile for people to participate. 

Most holiday feasts feature an abundance of fattening foods. People often overeat these delicious dishes and gain weight while doing so. This is especially true if no type of fitness plan is followed during this time frame. Keeping fit during feasting times will help to burn off some of the calories and maintain overall wellness. Everyone should fit at least 30 minutes of exercise into their days throughout the holiday season and thereafter. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wyckoff, N.J.