The Festive Season is upon us which means more social occasions and the food and drink that comes with it. It is still possible to enjoy your time whilst actively working towards your health and fitness related goals, and we're here to show you how!
1. Self-Compassion. ENJOY yourself! If you do over indulge on food or drink too much, don't be so hard on yourself! This can create a negative mindset which will only take you further away from where you want to be. Have a game plan in place to minimise the effects and get back on track if you've slipped further than expected (i.e. extra cardio, group classes or accelerator day).
2. Meal portions. We all eat with our eyes, so using a smaller plate will help with reducing the amount of food that you consume. Also, the speed at which you eat your meal is important, so put down your knife and fork, talk between mouthfuls and slow down chewing as it takes approximately 20mins for your brain to register that your body is full. This will help with reducing the risk of overeating and you may get to know people better as well!
3. Drinking. Alcohol contains almost double the amount of calories, per gram, than carbohydrate (1g = 7cal) and is treated as a toxin by the body. In order to get rid of this toxin as fast as possible the alcohol becomes first priority for your body's preferred energy source. Now considering that it can take up to 10 hours for that process to complete, it's important to be mindful of the foods that we have before, during and after drinking as they won't get burnt right away. Try avoiding high-carb, high-fat foods and instead opt for high protein, low carb options as this will reduce the risk of weight gain.
4. Exercise challenge. Staying active over the holiday period is important to help keep you on track and your weight under control. A fun way to do this is to do an exercise challenge; you can even include your friends and family to make it a fun competition. An example could be doing 10,000 steps a day, hiking with friends and family, cycling, or just getting in touch with mother nature.
5. Goals for 2018. Work on your goals. Preparing for what you want to achieve next year will help give you a kick start in the new year. It will stop you from putting off your health goals as you will have a vision and be focused for what you want and where you want to be.
Having a plan will also allow you to enjoy the time spent with loved ones without the stress or worry of what's happening next year.
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
