They say the average American gains 75% of their annual weight gain between Thanksgiving and the New Year. I know that doesn't represent our sample population, however the surplus in calories can make pull-ups and burpees that much harder this time of year.
Keeping this in mind, I think it's important to have some systems in place so that you don't have to bury yourselves in workouts come January, or default to a detox diet.
Here are some helpful tips to get through the holidays:
Get to the gym even when you don't feel like it. As was mentioned in our last post, this is a tough time of year to be consistent. With this said, forcing yourself to do something like working out even when you're not in the mood is exactly what you need to snap out of that funk you're in! If you can't get to the gym, do the next best thing, which is walking, running, or a home workout. But consistency is key this time of year!
Secondly, when you do get invited to that holiday gathering, bring a healthy snack to share (or not share). This might be the only healthy option available at the time. Lean proteins or veggies can literally keep you from binging on the hypnotizing charcuterie board.
When you get to the party, try to avoid congregating directly over the food. No one has that much willpower to resist the temptation of snacking on philly cheese steak dip, or Sally's stuffed bread. But those little bite-sized morsels add up to real calories!
Another one of my favorite tips is to hydrate like a mother before you go to a party. That same mechanism in your brain that tells you you're hungry is oftentimes mixed messages from dehydration. So, drink as much water as you can even if you have pee every 10 minutes!
On that same theme, never go to a party thirsty or hungry. That's a recipe for disaster!
Speaking of hunger pains, one of my favorite things to have on me at all times is a protein bar. It's gotten me out of many impulsive situations over the years. It helps to avoid mindless eating when you have something small in your belly. Keep a stash in your car, or purse and I promise you, it will pay off!
And my favorite hack, delay instant gratification. The longer you can hold out on eating something you might regret, the better. Hey, you might even get distracted and forget you even wanted that mini snickers bar!
Last but not least, MORE sleep! The more you sleep, the fewer calories you need. When you're tired, you eat more because you need the energy. It's that simple.
What's a tip that works for you?!
.jpg)
