With the holidays around the corner, unwanted weight gain and high levels of stress seem inevitable. Whether it’s busy malls, demanding in-laws, or your never-ending desire to guzzle eggnog, something is bound to leave you feeling stressed and unhealthy. The good news is there are ways around these nasty tests of character. With my fitness and nutrition background, I came up with some foolproof steps to ensure you go into the New Year feeling like you’ve been good to your mind and body all season long.
Kathy Kaehler is a celebrity trainer and founder of the Sunday Set-Up meal plan
Keep on Schedule
It’s easy to give up your “me time” during the holidays—I’ve seen it in my fitness classes so many times. My suggestion? Stick to your workout schedule no matter what. If you don't regularly write it down on your calendar, write it down during the holidays. Exercising will keep calories at bay, while sweating keeps your stress level down and your attitude positive.
Start Your Resolution Now
If weight loss is your annual New Year’s resolution, it’s time to rethink your strategy. You don’t have to wait until the New Year, you can start now! Not Monday, not after your office holiday party, now. I’m not saying run a marathon by the time the ball drops but you can be well on your way to getting 30 minutes of cardio three times a week by 2013.
Control The Drinks
The holiday seems to add liquid calories that many of us won't count until we see the numbers add up on the scale. My recommendation is to skip drinks that are creamy unless you make them yourself and can monitor the amount. Maybe try low-fat eggnog instead of the regular one—you can save up to 200 calories! That’s an extra serving of something delicious you might have been avoiding before. Try to squeeze in a glass of water in between cocktails too. This will quench your thirst, keep you feeling full and ultimately reduce the amount of liquor you consume.
Watch The Grub
Let’s face it: we’re all going to want in on some of those delicious holiday foods. Just remember to keep your proportions under control and even. For example, if you want a piece of cheese, have it with an apple. If you’re scooping up sweet potatoes, add some ham or turkey to your plate, too. The idea is to have both a good carb with some protein, which will curb your cravings and keep you feeling full (not stuffed!) for longer.
For healthy recipe ideas and easy workouts that you can do at home, (right before you hit the parties!) go onwww.kathykaehler.net.
