By: Adam Pounds, EIM Owner

It’s hard enough to find time to exercise.

But finding time to exercise during the holidays is even more difficult!

Shopping for presents, holiday parties, family events and all the other things that get us into the holiday spirit seem to cloud our schedules and take the place of any free time we thought we had.

Even though it’s probably the hardest time of year, most personal trainers would agree that it’s also the most important time to fit in those workouts.

Why? 

Because working out can reduce stress AND give you more energy, which is exactly what most of us need this time of year!

(Not to mention it’ll help offset all of the holiday sweets that prove too tempting.) 

Working Out During the Holiday Season: Why It’s Important + How to Fit It In

As the days get shorter in the wintertime, this can lead to varying degrees of seasonal depression. Mix that in with the stress of the holiday season and people can quickly get overwhelmed and anxious.

Seasonal Depression is real. Exercise is an effective treatment.

Exercise can help combat depression, boost your mood and relieve stress.

*Bonus points if you can get in an outdoor workout during the daytime hours when you can soak in the sun and increase your vitamin D levels.

Working out can also provide structure during these hectic times, which can help those struggling with anxiety and seasonal depression. Sticking to a regular schedule can also improve overall health by leading to better sleep and eating schedules.

How can you fit in your workouts during the holiday madness? Get creative.

If you’re planning on traveling, do some research on local parks near your destination for walking trails. It’s also a great way to get to know a new area, and getting the family involved can be fun too.

If you have a gym membership and have guests in town, check and see if there are any guest pass options so you can bring them with you.

If you’re staying in a hotel with an exercise room, use that to your benefit. Just be sure to remember your shoes and other gear when you’re packing!

One unique option is to forgo traditional date night with a more active date. Trade in the charcuterie boards and wine for some basketball outside, or sweating it out in the gym with your partner.

Don’t be afraid to get outside and get sweaty when your kids are getting sweaty. Being active together and getting the whole family involved can make exercise feel more like play.

If You Get Off Track, Getting Back On is Easier Than You Think

The holidays are a stressful time, and ultimately, there are only so many hours in the day.

Try to avoid an “all or nothing” mind frame. Don’t let one heavy meal in the morning derail your whole day. Get right back on track with an outdoor walk at lunch or a quick trip to the gym on your way home.

It’s also easy to overindulge when the savory casseroles and sweet treats are nearby. When the party’s over, toss the leftovers or send them home with other partygoers.

Remember, one day will not make or break your entire health plan.

Enjoy the season, but don’t let holiday treats become everyday occurrences once January comes.

Let EIM Personal Training Be Your Gift This Holiday Season

Whether you’re looking for private or semi-private training to get your heart rate up, or a nutritional consultation to make a plan for holiday parties, the professionals at EIM Personal Training are here to help.

We are proud to offer personal training sessions at our Mountain Brook, Ala. location to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Contact us today to learn more about how we can  help you achieve your goals and feel great this holiday season.