Ahhh Christmas, ‘tis the season to be joggy… hmmm, that doesn’t sound quite right… Christmas conjures many images and feelings, but not many of these are traditionally associated with fitness and exercise, in fact often quite the opposite!

Exercise helps to improve energy levels, reduces stress and anxiety, improves self-confidence (all of which comes in pretty handy around Christmas time!) and, of course, it can help us to maintain or achieve a healthy body weight. As we move closer to Christmas, however, the post-work social functions start to mount up, our routine goes out the window, eating and drinking increases and suddenly we don’t have as much space in our schedules (or brains) for exercise as usual. And that’s assuming you have an exercise routine in place already, if you are just trying to establish one, Christmas can throw you off your game completely!

So for some gentle #fitspo, here are a few ideas to help you survive the chaotic lead up to Christmas with your exercise routine intact:

• Try not to focus on loosing weight over the Christmas season, but rather maintain your current weight and be physically active everyday. Any weight you do lose is a bonus!
• You will make over 220 food related choices each day, probably more around Christmas, but you’ll probably only make one exercise related decision each day – will I or won’t I? Try and make it as easy as possible to choose to exercise. Have your gym gear with you at work so you don’t need to go home first, or keep your sneakers right near the door as a prompt to go for that walk as soon as you get home.
• Take advantage of the beautiful weather (in Australia at least!) by riding or walking to places rather than using your car.
• Do something everyday, even if you don’t feel like it. Just plan to get out the door and walk around the block, chances are once you’re out the door, you’ll keep going!
• Most importantly, take part in the activities you enjoy the most and get the people you want to spend your time with involved in those activities over the holidays.

By setting small, realistic goals each day to move more or move smarter, you will ensure your fitness will not be jeopardized over the silly season.

So what movement goal can you set for yourself today that will help keep you on track over Christmas? Let us know what you’re planning if you’re feeling brave!