5 Reasons to Workout During the Holidays

 Admittedly I was not on track like I should have been around Thanksgiving and then I had a dream...one that I had gained 140 lbs over the holidays. Needless to say my booty has been back in the gym almost everyday since then! With the Christmas holiday quickly approaching, schedules filling up and the temperatures dropping workouts can be the first to go for me. But, I'm encouraging myself and you to stick with (or start) exercising through this bustling season for these reasons:

1. Reduce Your Stress For some of us, the holidays can be a stressful time of year and working out definitely helps to alleviate the stress and tensions. Even if I don't feel like going to the gym, by the time I am finished, I feel so much better! I have never regretted a workout but I have regretted not working out. Working out helps clear my mind and improve my mood a ton! I know one helpful tip for myself is to never miss a Monday at the gym. Mondays set the tone for my week.

2. Working Out Helps You Eat Healthier This is true for me, but I wonder is it true for you too? When I'm working out consistently, I tend to eat a lot better. I recognize that I worked hard at the gym and I don't want to blow it by eating terrible. If I'm not working out I tend to eat badly which leads me to indulging in way too may desserts, snacks and drinks. And I mean drinks of all kinds from hot chocolate, wine to cocktails especially at all the Christmas parties and happy hours. 

3. Finish Strong For me, I've worked really fairly hard at getting in shape and I want to maintain what I've accomplished. I have a long ways to go but I don't want to have to start from the beginning. If you've done the same, don't spoil it by quitting now!

4. Be Ahead of the Game for the New Year When the New Year comes and everyone is resolving to "get in shape" you'll already be ahead of the game! I look forward to this feeling every year!

5. No Guilt for Small Indulgences I try to watch what I eat most of the time, but I admit to having a small addiction this time of year to hot chocolate especially and other yummy holiday snacks! I don't think a total withdraw is a good thing (or fun at all) and knowing I workout helps remind me that it's alright to indulge during the holiday without feeling guilty. Just not so much to were I gain 140 lbs! Ah!! 

Putting this all in a post helps motivate me to continue my efforts at getting and staying fit...as well as the dang Victoria Secret Fashion Show! Those beautiful Angels get me every year, instant motivation! I hope post this is motivating to others as well. What are some helpful tips you have for staying active and healthy through the holiday?