How to Stay Motivated to Train During the Holidays

The holiday season is full of festivities, family gatherings, and delicious treats—all of which can make sticking to a fitness routine feel challenging. But staying active during the holidays is a great way to keep your energy levels up, manage holiday stress, and start the new year feeling strong and accomplished. At EIM Personal Training, we know how tough it can be to keep up with your workouts during the holiday season, so here are some practical tips to help you stay motivated and committed.

Set Realistic, Short-Term Goals

During the holidays, it’s okay to adjust your fitness goals. Instead of focusing on big achievements, set smaller, manageable goals that keep you on track:

• Maintain consistency: Aim to work out a certain number of days each week, even if it’s shorter or lighter than usual.
• Focus on quality over quantity: Commit to a few core exercises or quick workouts, rather than long, intensive sessions. A 20-minute workout is better than none.
• Stay active daily: Even if you don’t get a full workout in, aim to incorporate movement, like a morning walk or some stretching, to keep your routine alive.

Plan Your Workouts Around Your Schedule

The holidays often come with packed schedules, so try to plan workouts that fit seamlessly into your routine:

• Schedule short, effective workouts: HIIT or circuit training can give you a full-body workout in less time, so you don’t have to choose between fitness and festivities.
• Try morning workouts: Exercising in the morning can help you start the day on a high note and leaves your evenings open for holiday events.
• Stay flexible: Be open to adjusting your workout time or type if your day doesn’t go as planned. Even a quick stretch or core session at home counts!

Make Workouts Social

Holidays are a time for connecting with loved ones, so make your workouts social by inviting friends or family to join you:

• Plan family activities: Go for a family hike, a walk after meals, or a friendly sports game. Staying active together is fun and helps keep everyone moving.
• Join a holiday fitness challenge: Many gyms or fitness communities offer holiday challenges that keep you accountable and connected with others on a similar path.
• Work out with friends: Having a workout buddy can boost your motivation and make the experience more enjoyable, even on busy days.

Celebrate Small Wins

During the holiday season, it’s essential to appreciate the progress you’re making, even if it’s different from other times of the year:

• Track your workouts: Keep a simple record of each workout session to remind yourself of your progress, no matter how small.
• Focus on how you feel: Staying active during the holidays can help you feel more energized and less stressed—those benefits are worth celebrating.
• Reward yourself: Treat yourself to small rewards for staying consistent, like a new workout playlist, comfy workout gear, or even a festive treat.

Stay Active with Holiday-Themed Workouts

Adding a seasonal twist to your workouts can keep things fresh and festive:

• Try a holiday-themed workout class: Many fitness studios offer fun, themed classes this time of year. From Christmas-themed Zumba to New Year’s boot camps, these can add a festive flair.
• Incorporate seasonal challenges: Create a mini-challenge for yourself, like 12 days of fitness where you do a different exercise each day leading up to Christmas.
• Switch up your scenery: Take your workout outside to enjoy the fresh air or explore decorated streets. Going for a run or walk in a festive area can be both motivating and fun.

Prioritize Your Well-Being

During the holidays, workouts should help you feel good and keep stress levels manageable:

• Stay mindful: Approach each workout as time for yourself to recharge, destress, and clear your mind.
• Incorporate active rest: Stretching, yoga, or gentle mobility work are excellent ways to stay active while giving yourself a break from high-intensity training.
• Listen to your body: If you’re feeling tired or burnt out, take a lighter day or rest. Staying motivated also means avoiding burnout.

Balance Fitness and Enjoyment

The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, so find a balance between sticking to your goals and allowing yourself some freedom:

• Enjoy your meals guilt-free: Indulging in holiday meals is part of the experience, and it’s okay! Enjoy your time with loved ones and get back to your routine afterward.
• Stay consistent with movement: Even if you’re not doing full workouts, stay active with walks, stretching, or light exercises. Moving a little each day helps you maintain your motivation.
• Adjust your mindset: Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on maintaining a routine that keeps you feeling healthy and happy.

Consider a Trainer or Group Accountability

If you’re struggling with motivation, consider partnering with a personal trainer or joining a group:

• Personalized workouts: At EIM Personal Training, we design custom workouts that fit your holiday schedule and keep you progressing, even with limited time.
• Accountability: Working with a trainer or group helps keep you motivated and committed, making it easier to stick to your goals.
• Virtual training options: If you’re traveling, a trainer can provide virtual workouts, so you don’t have to miss a beat during the holidays.

Stay Motivated and Enjoy the Season

Balancing fitness and the holiday season is possible with a bit of planning, flexibility, and creativity. Remember, staying active isn’t about being perfect but rather about maintaining consistency and finding enjoyment in movement. With these tips, you can make the most of both your fitness and holiday season, starting the new year feeling energized and accomplished.

Ready for holiday support? Contact EIM Personal Training to create a customized plan that keeps you motivated, active, and on track—no matter how busy the season gets!