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The holiday season is upon us. For many, it’s a time of eating, drinking and having a good time. A time to put away all that boring self-discipline and really let loose until the New Year. Many people will eat till they’re swollen, drink till they slosh and definitely no exercise. When the New Year hits, they will make a resolution to get back in shape and eat right. Instead of that detrimental pattern of binging and promising, try staying in shape throughout the entire season. It only takes a little planning and determination.

It’s much easier to maintain one’s physical condition than it is to start from the bottom – especially as a person gets older. The longer a body is out of shape, the harder it will be to get it fit again.
The most important thing to remember during the holiday season is to NOT overeat. Try these tips to help you through the busy, tempting holidays:

When at a party or gathering, SAMPLE the food, don’t pig out.
At a potluck, bring a low fat/calorie dish you can enjoy.
Don’t feel obligated to eat more than you want. Food pushers come out in full force during the holidays. Just say no.
Drink lots of water. The water will help you feel full and it is easy to become dehydrated during the cooler months. Force yourself to drink more water than you want.
Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol decreases your willpower and adds calories; especially in the thick drinks like eggnog and hot buttered rum. Drink water or a non-alcoholic beverage between each drink.
Munch on lower calorie foods like vegetables and fruits rather than the sweet, fat or salty types of snacks.
Decide ahead of time what and how much you are going to eat and drink – and most importantly, stick to it!
Allow yourself to enjoy some holiday treats guilt free. At a party, pick a favorite indulgence, but only eat that one.
Talk and mingle rather than sit and eat.
Eat when you are hungry and only the amount you need, not out of boredom or because food’s available.

Eating right is only part of it. When the colder weather of winter hits and the days are shorter, it’s very easy to hibernate. But it is very important to stick with an active lifestyle. Remember, summer will be here very soon, work toward that, don’t make it harder on yourself by waiting. You’ll be happy you did.
There are many ways to stay active, whether it’s indoors or out. It just takes drive and motivation to do it. Don’t let the shorter, colder days of winter make you lazy.

Stay active indoors:

Workout to a home exercise or yoga videotape.
Go to the gym: work out on your own, with a buddy or take a class. Try something new.
Don’t make a New Years Resolution to get in shape, stay in shape all year long.
Maintain your momentum; keep up with a regular program. Don’t make excuses.
Go skiing, snow shoeing, or sledding. Make it a family event everybody needs exercise.
Go for a brisk walk at lunchtime, instead of putting it off till evening when it’s dark and colder outside.
Use a personal trainer to help maintain motivation.When exercising outdoors it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
Dress appropriately for the weather and the conditions. This calls for good traction on slippery surfaces, insulation against the wind, cold, rain and snow.
Wear layers that can be removed or donned depending on activity level and weather.
Warm up indoors before going out to exercise.
Stretch before and after a workout, it will help protect against injuries. It’s especially important in cold weather.
Remember to drink plenty of water.
When outside in the dark (or near dark) wear clothing that has reflective material, bright colors and use a flashlight.
Tell someone, or leave a message as to where you’ll be and for how long.

The most important point is to keep as active and eat as well as possible while having fun. If a few pounds of body fat develop, don’t worry; it’s natural for the body to put on a little extra fat in the winter. Try to be conscious of how much you eat and exercise accordingly. If you just have to have a second piece of that chocolate cake, go ahead, but make up for it as soon as possible with exercise.
Stay active, have fun, eat smart and have a good holiday.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this article please contact justglenn@earthlink.net.