Thanksgiving is right around the corner, with December hot on it’s heels. If you’re like most, your exercise routine suffers during the holidays. In December a workout gets squeezed out by shopping, parties, family time and other various activities. Many people look ahead to January, with plans to start again with a vengeance once the new year rolls around. At Flow, we challenge you to stick with your routine, even if you have to modify it to make it happen. Here are five reasons to get your workout in:
- Exercise reduces stress, and increases energy. Stress is an inevitable part of life – especially during the holidays, with many demands on your time and patience. Exercise is an excellent coping mechanism. Studies show that it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and enhancing overall cognitive function. If your body feels better, so does your mind.
- Exercise boosts your immune system. Who wants to miss out on holiday fun because of a cold? Physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways. This may reduce your chance of getting a cold, flu, or other airborne illness – reason enough to exercise each and every day!
- Exercise can help combat holiday weight gain. Most of us indulge, if only just a little, during the holidays. Why not burn some of those extra calories with a good workout?
- Even a little goes a long way. You may not have time for an hour long work out – but don’t hang on to to the “all or nothing” attitude. You can benefit from bouts of exercise as short as ten minutes. Sneak in movement in any way you can. Another tip: schedule it in. Many people give up exercise this time of year as something that takes up too much time. Be strategic, and plan ahead.
- Exercise will be easier when January arrives. Instead of having to start over again in January, keep the momentum going and simply continue your current routine – even better: mix it up with a new class or two. The body loses fitness gains fairly easily, so do yourself a favor and maintain all you have worked toward this year!
Whatever you do, don’t think of exercise as just one more thing on your to-do list this holiday season. Think of it as a valiant act of self care. Move your body today!