It’s definitely the most wonderful time of the year but is it just me or is it also the busiest time of year too?! This month is freaking flying by and I feel like there is still SO much to do! So today I’m talking about staying on track during the holidays. This season is a tough one to stay on our A game and its not an easy feat to get to the gym or stay on track meal wise. I’ve been struggling with it quite a bit, but have found some really useful tips which have really helped this year. I am not the type to skip a friends dinner because I have to hit the gym, but instead plan my workouts around the additional activities of the season. I also dont restrict myself much from those wonderful desserts or cheese plates, but instead have learned to stagger calories, drink lots of water and a few other helpful tips below.
OUTFIT DETAILS: Zara bomber (similar here and here) // Ivy Park Sports Bra (also on sale here)// Ivy Park High Waisted Leggings (also love this burgendy pair)// New Balance Sneakers
Here are some tips which has helped me get through the holidays which I hope will help you reach your goals during this season!
Build a smart training schedule
I am all about planning my workouts for the week- timing and muscle groups. Its sooooo important to plan in advance to ensure that they are a part of your day. Also, some exercise is better than none. Rather than skipping the gym altogether make time for a quick one at home, or go out for a 30 min run.
Structure your training so you rest on days that you have planned to spend time with friends and family. To take things a step further, if you’re traveling for 3-4 days and know you won’t make it to the gym, plan your workouts prior so that so you can hit the gym hard the week prior. After a few straight days of training, you’ll probably feel pretty beat up. When you get to this point, however, you’ll get to take a few days off and enjoy the benefits of your muscles rebuilding at rest.
Stagger your calories
A few days prior to a family gathering or holiday party where you know there will be plenty of food, lower your calorie intake. The day of the family gathering, do what is called a ‘refeed’. Eating on a schedule like this (with planned low and high calorie days) can work to your fat-burning advantage. Giving your body extra calories after it’s been in a deficit for a while can increase your metabolism. Just be careful that your refeed day doesn’t turn into a week or month!
Increase training intensity
If you are not already doing a high-intensity program, now is the time to start. Make your workouts more challenging will keep your heart rate high and help you burn more calories. High intensity exercise can increase your metabolic rate even after the sessions are completed, so you continue to burn fat.
While we are familiar with high-intensity cardio, you can also add some intensity to your weightlifting sessions. To increase the intensity of your workouts, decrease the rest periods; add cardio movements like jumping rope, air squats, burpees, or mountain climbers between sets; or implement low-rest circuits that challenge your muscles and your energy systems.
Don’t drink your calories
I know this is a hard one, especially this time of year! Be cautious of the drinks you choose and how many. Some lower calorie cocktails choices include a gimlet, a martini, mojito, gin and tonic and vodka soda. Also a glass of champagne is around 90 calories- my drink of choice.
Drink plenty of water
Your brain can sometimes confuse thirst with hunger. A large glass of water before a meal (and especially before considering seconds) can help lessen the amount of food you consume. Drink six to eight glasses of water per day, and be sure to have two big glasses of water before calorie-rich meals.
Eat before parties
Most parties don’t focus on low-fat, low calorie snacks so I like to eat before an event to damage control and fill my belly before devouring the all the cheese (my weakness!)
Offer to prepare something healthy
There are plenty of healthy dishes to bring to a party! Choose something that you will be munching on. I love Skinny Taste and also the Dashing Dish for healthy appetizer and side dish ideas!
Most of all, dont stress. Enjoy the season and do the best YOU can to stay on track. xo
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