Over the next few weeks, journalists will thoughtfully inform us about the amount of weight the average person should expect to put on in December.
Don't be one of those statistics! Scroll down for our top 5 tips on beating the Christmas bulge, sign-up for our Mince Pie Burn-Offs and get your name down on our January HIIT BootCamp!
1) Make Those Treats Worthwhile
You actually don’t have to drink a gingerbread latte topped with freshly whipped cream, gold stars and a gingerbread man, every time you pass a coffee shop.
But if you do fancy one of those festive coffees, then go for it. Pick a time when you can sit down and really enjoy every last one of those syrupy, creamy mouthfuls. It's a complete waste of indulgence if you just grab one and go though. Have it once for an indulgent treat, and make sure you allow time to truly appreciate it.
2) Pass-On The Indulgent Love (tactfully)
People always feel obliged to bring chocolates and treats whenever they visit friends and family at this time of year. However, when these treats land on your kitchen table, don't feel obliged to consume all of them. Discreetly re-gift, or feel virtuous by donating them to a food bank or soup kitchen. Basically, your goal is to remove them from your house before you get chance to rip open the cellophane wrapper.
3) Don't Give Up
Parties, broken routines, travel and stress means that most of us are less active and eat more during December. It's OK to accept that this might happen. But try to avoid going down the “I’ve blown my diet, I may as well keep going” route. Make some healthy choices, fit in some exercise and you'll feel much better for it.
4) The Shops Are Only Closed For One Day!
Avoid stockpiling crisps, nuts and snacks for that just-in-case-someone-pops-around moment. Especially if there's a good chance you might polish them off yourself because "it’ll be a shame to waste them". Buy the things you’ll need and remember that visitors rarely come empty-handed (see Top Tip Number 2).
5) Don’t Passively Load Up On Extra Calories
Here are a few simple festive swaps you can make:
- Buy or make open top mince tarts as these can have around 50 calories less than mince pies with lids on.
- Choose satsumas to graze on rather than nuts. If you can't resist the nuts, buy ones with shells on, you'll eat a lot less of them.
- Avoid drinking creamy cocktails, Baileys and sweetened mulled wine. Stick to the fizz or wine.
Good luck and don’t forget to sign-up to our Mince Pie Burn-Offs and January HIIT BootCamp!
Heather and the HA fitness team x
