During this time of year, we find that life becomes even more hectic with holiday shopping, parties, and gatherings with family. All of these activities can disrupt our exercise habits and lead to a health decline that can include increased bodyweight and decreased fitness. At this busy time of year, it is still super important to make time for exercise.
If you make time for exercise, you’ll be more likely to:
• Keep your weight more stable
• Have a restful sleep and wake up refreshed
• Manage stress better
• Keep your immune system healthy
• Keep your metabolism from slowing down from lack of exercise
If it’s necessary to fit exercise in, plan it out. Understand and accept that during the holidays, there is more of a time crunch, so maybe decrease your overall workout time either by less days per week or less time per workout. This change will keep you going so that when the holidays end, you’re still maintaining your health and only have to increase your time working out and not start all over in the new year.
Chris Phillips is an Athletic Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Specialist with over 30 years’ experience in professional hockey, football and soccer. Chris is also the owner of Compete Sports Performance and Rehab with three locations in Orange County, CA.