Hi There! I’m Marisa, a Certified Group Fitness Instructor and Fitness Nutritionist Specialist living in Boston. I am excited to welcome you to my very first blog post! Be sure to visit the blog weekly for nutrition advice, healthy recipes, and easy-to-follow workouts. With the holiday season upon us, today’s post is going to focus on how to stay active and healthy through the holidays and beyond.
Between all the parties, cookie swaps, and eggnog, it can be hard to avoid gaining weight and feeling sluggish over the holidays. I’m offering my tips on how to still enjoy yourself but also feel good once the holiday season is over.
Below are some tips that I follow consistently that will help you stay on track through the holidays and beyond.
Get your zzz’s…
Getting 8 hours of sleep is crucial to staying focused and feeling good throughout your day. When tired, you are more likely to have cravings and grab quick on-the-good foods that may contribute to weight gain and poor meal choices.
Exercise…in the Morning
The most common excuse for why people don’t workout is because they don’t have time. I get my workout over with before I start my day so that I can’t make excuses about not being able to fit it into my schedule. You don’t need a gym membership or fancy equipment; you can do quick, at-home bodyweight circuits that get your heart rate-up. Be sure to check out my blog weekly as I post more easy-to-follow workouts. Getting your workout over with in the morning also helps to start your day on the right track with healthier eating habits and it releases endorphins that make you more alert throughout your day.
Eat Breakfast
About a ½ hour to an hour before my morning workout, I usually have half a banana or a Lara Bar. You may find that you don’t need to eat before your workout, but it depends on how long or intense your workout is. I need a little bit of carbs/sugar to kick start my energy as I don’t typically drink coffee. A well-balanced, healthy breakfast should absolutely be consumed right after your work out (within an hour) or at the start of your day (if you aren’t working out). If you don’t have time in the mornings to make breakfast, I recommend my overnight oats recipe that you can prepare the night before which has both low Glycemic Index carbs as well as good protein to keep you full and energized. Eating a healthy breakfast helps set the tone for your day and satisfies you so that you are less likely to make unhealthy choices throughout your day.
Have the Dessert…in Moderation
You can have your cake (or Christmas cookie) and eat it too, but make sure you are consuming in moderation. A lot of times I skip eating a dinner roll and instead, will opt for having dessert. Don’t go overboard but don’t deprive yourself. I also try to save my “cheat” meals or dessert on the days that I’ve worked out.
Do you have any tips on how you stay healthy during the holidays? I’d love to hear your ideas!
Cheers!
