How to Stay Healthy, Fit, and Balanced Over the Holidays
Hi everyone, Nathan here from NG Health and Fitness! December has always been one of my favorite times of year. Now, with a young family of my own, it’s even more meaningful. This season, I’m especially looking forward to spending time with my daughter, Penny, and making special holiday memories together.
As a personal trainer and a dad, I know how hard it can be to balance fitness with family—especially when the holidays get busy. But staying active, healthy, and balanced doesn’t mean missing out on the holiday fun! With a few strategies, you can enjoy the season to the fullest while keeping your wellness goals on track. Here’s my guide to a healthy, happy December.
1. Keep Moving with Family-Friendly Holiday Workouts
The holiday season can make it challenging to stick to your usual fitness routine. But even during busy times, you can keep active with a few smart adjustments.
- Embrace Short Workouts: Short, high-intensity workouts like HIIT can help you maintain fitness and boost energy, even when time is tight. A 20-minute session can work wonders.
- Incorporate Family Activities: My daughter Penny loves being outside, so we make a point to get out for a brisk walk or play at the park. Staying active as a family is a great way to create memories and stay fit together.
- Schedule Workouts Around Events: Planning your workouts in advance can help keep you accountable, even during a packed December. Some days, I fit in a quick session at home, and other times, I make it to the gym. The key is consistency.
2. Practice Mindful Eating During Festive Meals
December is full of festive meals and treats. You don’t have to say “no” to every holiday indulgence—instead, enjoy them mindfully.
- Balance is Key: I aim to balance indulgent foods with nutrient-dense meals. Lean proteins, veggies, and whole grains are mainstays in my diet, which helps me enjoy treats without overindulging.
- Portion Control: Savoring small portions lets you enjoy your favorites without going overboard. A small slice of cake or one cookie goes a long way.
- Be Mindful with Alcohol: Festive drinks can be calorie-heavy, so I alternate with water and stay mindful of my limits.
3. Stay Hydrated Throughout December
With all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to overlook hydration. But staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining energy and managing hunger. I make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, which is a game-changer for staying energized and balanced. Adding electrolytes in the morning can also help kickstart the day.
4. Prioritize Mental Well-being
The holidays can bring added stress, especially with family commitments and year-end tasks. Here’s how I keep my mental health a priority:
- Set Boundaries: I’ve learned to set limits on social events to ensure I have time to recharge. This helps me show up better for my family and clients.
- Practice Mindfulness: Taking a few moments for deep breathing, a quick outdoor break, or jotting down my thoughts helps keep me grounded.
- Get Enough Sleep: As a dad, sleep is precious. I aim for 7-8 hours to stay well-rested, even if it means calling it an early night.
5. Set Realistic Goals
December might not be the best time to push for big fitness goals. Instead, focus on maintaining your progress and enjoying a balanced routine.
- Maintain Consistency: Consistency is key, even if you’re not hitting personal bests. Staying on track is often more valuable than setting records.
- Plan Ahead: I schedule workouts and meals around holiday gatherings. This approach helps me stay mindful and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
6. Enjoy Indulgences Wisely
With Penny around, we’re often baking treats together. It’s hard not to sample everything, but I try to stay mindful of portion sizes.
- Choose Your Favorites: Rather than sampling everything, I pick a few of my favorite treats and savor them.
- Avoid Mindless Snacking: Sitting down to enjoy food rather than grazing can help you feel satisfied and less likely to overeat.
- 80/20 Approach: I aim to eat healthily 80% of the time, with room for a few treats. This balanced approach keeps me on track without feeling restricted.
7. Boost Your Immune System
Colder weather and busy schedules can make it easier to fall sick. Staying healthy is especially important for my family, so we focus on foods rich in vitamins C, D, and zinc, and keep active to support our immune systems.
8. Reflect and Set Intentions for the New Year
December is the perfect time to look back on the year and set intentions for the next. As a dad and trainer, I want to be my best for both my family and clients. Reflecting on the past year helps me set goals that align with my values.
At NG Health and Fitness, we’re here to support you in starting the New Year strong. Whether it’s fitness goals, nutrition guidance, or mental well-being, our team, including Paige, our pre and post-natal specialist, is ready to help.
Wishing You a Healthy, Joyful Holiday Season from My Family to Yours
The holiday season is all about joy, family, and celebration. Staying healthy and balanced doesn’t mean missing out on the fun; it’s about making choices that make you feel good. This December, let’s focus on staying active, being mindful, and cherishing the moments that matter most.
From my family—myself, my wife, and little Penny—to yours, we wish you a holiday filled with health, happiness, and wellness. If you need guidance or motivation, NG Health and Fitness is here to support you. Here’s to a wonderful season and a strong start to the new year!
