Keeping fit in the run up to Christmas

It’s December…yay!

The unofficial start to Christmas and that means it’s silly season!

Chilly weather, lots of eating and drinking, manic schedules and our normal routines, well they just fly out the window…including fitness routines.

We get it! And we want you to enjoy every minute of the festive season, so here are some top tips from our fitness guys to help keep you active this December.

Keep warm in your kit
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. Base layers, gloves, headbands and hats are all useful for extra warmth when you’re exercising outside (which by the way, is a fab idea in December).

Keep your energy levels up
We promise you will enjoy every mince pie and glass of warm, delicious mulled wine that much more if you’ve exercised in some way. Just a lunchtime walk or quick visit to the gym will increase your energy by releasing those wonderful endorphins.

The gyms are less busy
It’s true. We see a dip in attendance during December whilst everyone is running around, shopping, partying and visiting family and friends. So it’s actually a brilliant time to use or join a gym.

Mix it up
Variety is the key to enjoying exercise. Doing the same type of exercise all the time can be demotivating. Try something new, get outside to exercise or get involved in a gym challenge.

Battle the bloat
If you suffer with bloating (10-25% of the population does) – cardio may be your friend. It can relieve bloating as it aids gas to pass through the digestive system. Aim for 30 minutes of cardio 3 times a week and show your gut health some love.

Get better sleep
Exercising improves sleep for many people. Specifically, moderate-to-vigorous exercise can increase sleep quality for adults by reducing sleep onset – or the time it takes to fall asleep – and decrease the amount of time they lie awake in bed during the night. Additionally, physical activity can help alleviate daytime sleepiness and, for some people, reduce the need for sleep medications.

Boost your immune system
Regular exercise is one of the pillars of healthy living. It improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, helps control body weight, and protects against a variety of diseases. But does it help to boost your immune system naturally and keep it healthy? Just like a healthy diet, exercise can contribute to general good health and therefore to a healthy immune system. So increase your chances of not being poorly this Christmas by including some form of exercise throughout December.

Give yourself a rest
Rest and recovery are important too during December. Don’t overdo exercise (at any time actually) and be kind to yourself. If you don’t manage to fit some movement in today – do it tomorrow instead. Just don’t fall off the fitness wagon completely – that’s the key. Don’t fall into the trap of writing off the entire month.

Keep the calories in check
Just be mindful of your calorie intake throughout December – that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy festive treats and be a little over-indulgent – in fact it’s good to treat yourself. A healthy balance is the key!

Stay healthy, active and happy this December and go into Christmas feeling awesome!

Follow us on social to see our 12 days of Fit-Mas challenge.