Sporting Holidays
This is why you should go running during the holidays
Many people put their feet up during the holidays - especially in front of the television. Not forbidden - but running or brisk walking can have many positive effects on your holiday health.
Running isn't necessarily a priority at Christmas or any other holiday. On the contrary: many prefer to relax after a lavish holiday roast with hot cider, sweets, and cookies on the couch, read books or tune in to the classics on TV over the holidays.
Whether alone or with the family: watching movies can be very comfortable. But binge watching doesn't really satisfy you either.
It is much more stimulating to include small exercise bouts between festive holiday meals. These can be small fat burners - or yoga workouts - maybe there will even be someone to join you for twice as much motivation.
Whether by yourself or not: This is a good time when you can just put on your walking or running shoes and get outside: Those who go for a walk at Christmas or holiday of your choice- or better yet: jog - benefit in many ways.
Switch Off Easier and Recharge Your Batteries
As beautiful as Christmas and the holiday season is, the hustle and bustle ahead or just being with family can cause stress. There is hardly any time for yourself between baking cookies, shopping for gifts and decorating the home or Christmas tree.
It is therefore even more important to take small breaks, tank energy and clear your head. Exercising in fresh air offers the ideal balance, because exercise helps you energize and also releases endorphins to out you in a festive mood.
Unlike the rest of the year, the streets during the actual holidays are less busy. You can concentrate completely on your body or nature. And that helps: According to a study, just 20 minutes in fresh air helps to reduce the stress level.
Also practical: running or walking shoes fit in every travel bag. So you can also take action when visiting relatives. And with the right clothing, freezing is not an issue.
No Chance for the Holiday Pounds
Running not only gives you energy, it burns it too. If you want to quickly get rid of some of the calories after having the roast, a slice of pie and spiced cider, a jogging session is well recommended.
To get the most out of your workout, you can turn your run into a HIIT workout and alternate interval runs with bodyweight exercises.
The intense combination puts the body under positive stress. This in turn means that you will continue to burn calories later – while resting comfortably on the couch.
Other positive side effects for health: Studies show that running lowers blood sugar levels and increases the number of “good” cholesterol. The risk of diabetes, heart attack and stroke can thus be greatly reduced.
Running Helps you Recover from a Food Coma
Running can stimulate your metabolism and speed up digestion - not a bad idea after Christmas and holiday gluttony. However, you should plan your runs and give it enough time before a large meal or even better run in the morning before breakfast - otherwise the run might upset your stomach. Brisk walks, on the other hand, are always recommended, especially after the holiday feast.
Walking or jogging also strengthens the cardiovascular system. Although you might feel a bit fatigued immediately after the exercise, you can be sure the run will boost your energy after this initial period of fatigue.
Freshly strengthened and revitalized, the hustle and bustle of Christmas can now hardly harm you.
How to deal with holiday weight and still lead a happy family life, I will show you in my upcoming podcast.
I wish you a wonderful and joyous holiday season!
Nutritional Coaching with Beyond your Scale
What type of diet is best for me? And if that's not for me: How do I keep a healthy weight? I will always be happy to provide you with the information you need to live a healthier, happier life.
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I will post this blog on my Facebook group page “ Living Well Community”. Go HERE to join the conversation about holiday stress and leave your comments.
I will also post my podcast on ITunes and Spotify. If you don’t want to miss it, you can subscribe HERE to my podcast series “The PJ Wellness Show”.
For more recipe ideas click here or go to my website www.beyondyourscale.com and click on recipes.
I can’t wait to meet you soon, and hope that you will share many more ideas how to maintain your weight during the holidays. And, of course, any tips how we can really enjoy the festivities. LET’S GO! Let's enjoy the celebrations without the usual waist line sufferings.
Still unsure? I have good news for you! I can help you kickstart your personal health goals for free - click on this link and book a free zoom call with me. It can’t be easier and more convenient.
My best,
Patrick
Do you want to join the conversation and connect with others who share your interests? Then join my Facebook Group "Living Well Community" by clicking on the link here. Can't wait to see you there!