Healthy Holiday Tip #3

Being physically active during the holidays is just as important as maintaining healthy eating habits. Especially during times when we are more likely to be sleep-deprived, stressed, and less focused on our overall well-being.

The goal: Aim for 30+ mins. a day. Children need 60+ mins. a day.

1. Get up and move! Participating in light of activities (stroll through a park, mall, or a treadmill), it’s better than none. It’s OK to break up the activity into multiple times a day; it still counts!

2. Bundle up and take a walk with your family – it’s a great way to spend time with the ones you love. It also boosts mood & energy levels.

3. Too cold outside, no problem!

• Create an indoor circuit

• Turn on some holiday music and break out into a dance party with your kids/grandkids

• Finding activities, such as yoga or other fitness classes at a local gym can keep you moving during the winter months

4. Add more intensity to your routine. If you are already very active, try turning up the intensity by adding more miles or minutes to a run, walk, or workout today.

5. Participate in a virtual event or challenge (I’m signed up for a December Walking challenge through my Garmin App).

*If you have had an event with your heart (heart attack or a stroke) or a chronic health condition, you should consult your physician before starting an exercise routine.

Photo credit: Media from Unsplash/Gary Ellis