Tips to help keep off those extra holiday pounds!

Tuesday, 23 January 2007

By Mark Wilde, Personal Trainer, Wisconsin Athletic Club The average American tends to overindulge at this time of year.  Between Thanksgiving and the New Year, the average American will gain seven pounds.  This is the result of a few extra helpings, snacking on holiday treats, and that extra glass of wine, along with a lot less exercise. This is an extremely challenging time of year for those who are trying to maintain healthy habits such as working out and eating a well-balanced, low-calorie diet.  We are constantly urged to have another helping, enjoy a holiday treat or skip the workout to go shopping instead.  No wonder so many of us gain weight. Complete deprivation is not the answer, though.  The holidays are meant to be enjoyed.  It's possible to balance healthy habits with enjoying your holiday gatherings and traditions. Here are 10 great tips, courtesy of Wilde & the WAC, for staying fit and eating better over the holidays: 1. Drink lots of water throughout the day.  It helps to increase the feeling of fullness, suppresses your appetite, & keeps your body healthy and hydrated. 2. Eat healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods whenever possible.  Dried fruits are healthy alternative to sweets like cookies and candy. 3. When shopping, park as far away from the mall as you can—the extra walking is good for you.  Remember that every little bit helps! 4. Get outdoors!  Bundle up and take the dog for a walk, go skating, or take the kids sledding.  Squeeze 10-minute walks into your schedule when possible.  Take a walk around the block at your office.  Any extra activity will help. 5. If you work out, face it, you're likely going to miss one or two, so plan ahead to work around it.  Schedule workouts at different times or substitute another activity, even if it's at home.  Doing things like taking a few extra trips up and down your stairs or putting your groceries in a basement fridge are good ideas. 6. Have a nutritious snack before attending a holiday party & use a smaller plate once you arrive.  Also, walk away from the food area while socializing. 7. Limit your alcohol consumption.  Remember that alcohol contains almost as many calories per gram as fat.  Try alternating alcoholic drinks with water or club soda while you're at a party. 8. Leave the party at a reasonable hour.  In addition to helping you get enough sleep during this hectic time of year, you'll also be removing yourself from the temptation to continue eating unnecessary calories. 9. Enlist the help of a family member, friend, or hire a personal trainer to help keep you on track with healthy habits during the holidays.  Choose someone who can not only provide encouragement, but set a good example as well. 10. Remember that balance, variety and moderation apply to the holidays as well as to most other things in life.  So don't be too hard on yourself if you slip up.  Keep your good intentions, spend time with family and friends and enjoy your holiday season. Health Clubs offer a combination of cardio and resistance-training opportunities, as well as group fitness classes and personal training.  These are all essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  If you're thinking about joining a fitness center, fall is a great time to join.  For more information about the six Wisconsin Athletic Clubs in the greater Milwaukee area, please visit www.thewac.biz.  Check out the complete listing of clubs that are Chamber members below.  Remember to mention that you are a Chamber Member to get your Chamber discount! Thank You and Happy Holidays! Chamber Member Health Clubs Average Joe's Gym                                   (414) 477-7099 Bally Total Fitness                                    (414) 475-7066 Motion Fitness & Racquet Club                    (414) 427-1100 Wisconsin Athletic Club                             (414) 321-2500

 

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