Ask the Anytime Gal

Question: What advice do you have when it comes to fitting exercise in during the busy holiday season?! 

Answer: Great question! One of the most common things I hear is, “Gosh, I wish I had time to exercise but life is just so crazy right now!” While life may get busier, consistency is the most important part of reaching your fitness goals. Taking a little bit of time to plan will help make your exercise routine possible – even during the busy holiday season! Here’s my top tips to stay on track.

• Plan your workouts ahead of time. If you go to a gym, sign up or schedule your sessions ahead of time. This way, it’s already on your calendar and you can schedule your day around it. 

• Group workouts! If you have family staying with you, see if they want to join you. It doesn’t need to be structured, but just getting the whole family moving can be a great experience. 

• Plan your meals! This is a great idea not only for the holidays, but all the time. Taking an hour or two on a Sunday afternoon to cook meals and healthy snacks for the week will keep you and your family on track with your goals.

• Be efficient! Remember, when it comes to fitness, you don’t need to take a full hour out of your day to get a great workout in. You can have a good workout in less than 20 minutes with nothing but bodyweight. Twenty squats, 10 push-ups, 20 mountain climbers, 60-second plank ... three times through and you’ve got a great workout in 15 minutes!

• Don’t do more, change what you’re already doing. During the holidays, free time runs at a premium. Try thinking of simple things that add up. Park further away, take the stairs, stand instead of sit. We have so many choices presented to us daily – make it a habit to choose healthier ones! 

About the author: Jayme Smid is the club manager at Anytime Fitness in Brandon. To submit a question, please contact the author at jayme.smid@anytimefitness.com.