December is in full swing. The festivities have started which means many will be out nibbling and drinking more than usual and skipping some workouts too. Let’s face it, there’s no avoiding it. So instead of falling off your wagon and swearing you’ll get back on tomorrow, ditch your regular routine and make a temporary Christmas one.

The gym hasĀ  “Reduced Holiday Timetable and Hours”, shops have “Extended Opening Hours”, many offices have reduced hours or close for a few days. So why not do the same? Make adjustments to your workout and diet routine to keep it more manageable and realistic. This way, you can stay on this “new plan” and succeed at it without beating yourself up for missing workouts or having dessert at your and your partner’s Christmas party. You also won’t feel like you are missing out on all the fun the festive season has to offer.

Honestly, it’s just a 2- 3-week tweak – it’s not enough to do any serious damage to your weight or your figure. When your “Holiday Agenda” ends and you get back to your regular routine, everything will go back to normal. The key is remember it’s temporary and not let it become permanent. Be sensible, make smart choices to maintain some balance.

Here are some examples of tweaks you can make to create your Holiday Activity Schedule.

  • Reduce your weekly workout sessions – cut back on the number or days/sessions you do in a week.
  • Reduce your workout time. Cut it down by a third or half – in exchange you can challenge yourself to work harder than usual.
  • Move your workouts to times or days that are more convenient for you during the next couple of weeks. If you usually workout evenings but your evenings are now busy with festive events, move your workout to morning or lunch.
  • Include friends and family. Be active together, indoors or outdoors. Play games, go for walks, go to your local pool or skating rink, explore different neighbourhoods on foot. Not only will you all be out and about and moving, but you’ll be spending quality time together.
  • Take a break and get some rest. Your mind and body will thank you for a little time off. You don’t have to stop everything but you can take it easy for a few days. When January rolls around, you’ll be rested and ready to go!