HEALTH

 

From warm pumpkin pie to piping hot chocolate with whipped cream, the holiday season is filled with delicious treats and delicacies. Although it's easy to want to gulp down stacks of sugar cookies and cider donuts, it's important to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Still, when everyone is celebrating, the last thing most people want to think about is spending time at the gym so instead, try one of these of ways to exercise without feeling like you're actually, uh, exercising. 

Ice skating. There's a reason ice skating is an Olympic sport. It's incredibly demanding and works many of the body's muscles. Not only is gliding along the ice a great cardio workout, but it also builds strength, flexibility and endurance. If you find yourself looking for a creative way to shape up this holiday, grab your friends and head to a rink, skating center or pond. Just be sure to check with the local authorities or managers to make sure the ice is safe first!    

Playing in the snow. Whether you're snowball fighting or making snow angels with your friends, playing in the snow will certainly get your heart rate up. Your fave childhood activities like sledding or frolicking through the snow with your pet may not seem like a workout, but they do get you moving. Besides, why spend the holidays on the treadmill, when a beautiful winter wonderland awaits?   

Holiday shopping. Tone up while searching for those last-minute gifts! While heading to the mall certainly won't be as effective a workout as an hour of downhill skiing, it can be an easy opportunity to shape up. Instead of taking the elevator to the next floor, take the stairs, choose the longer path to a store so you have to walk a little farther or offer to carry your friend's bags to engage your arm muscles.      

Skiing or snowboarding. Both are exciting alternatives to the usual gym workouts. If you haven't tried either sport before, we recommend taking a couple lessons and who knows, it may acutally become one of your favorite hobbies or passions. For a fun day trip, coordinate a visit to a lodge and invite your besties to tag along.   

Walking or sightseeing. Getting in your holiday workout doesn't need to be complicated. The season is all about spending time with friends and family so instead of exercising solo, take a group walk or go and explore a new location. The company will help you pass the time, and you'll be able to enjoy the scenery while still getting in some healthy cardio.  

How do you stay healthy during the holidays? Let us know in the comments section below.  

by Lauren Padilla | 12/7/2016