|
|
|
| |
It's easy to become distracted from your normal routines during the holidays; you may spend a lot of time shopping, preparing large meals or visiting relatives. For some people, shorter days and colder temperatures also make it harder to exercise. Nonetheless, it remains important to keep health and fitness in mind.
GETTING EXERCISE
Although weather and time constraints may limit activities like swimming, hiking or bicycling, you can find ways to fit in adequate exercise during the holidays. When shopping, try walking to/between as many stores as possible, rather than driving or taking a bus. To burn a few extra calories, put heavier items in your shopping cart first.
Indoor exercise equipment also proves helpful; you can use it any time, regardless of the temperature or sunlight. Try using stair climbers, exercise bicycles and treadmills to see what you prefer. Ellipticals are also a good option, but don't forget to read a few elliptical trainer reviews before deciding to buy one.
If you do venture out into the snow for some exercise, a couple of relatively safe options include snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing. It can also be enjoyable to ski across a snow-covered lake; just make sure the ice is very thick. Using cleats may allow you to walk on icy roads safely, but be careful on the hills.
HEALTHY EATING
With large quantities of turkey, mashed potatoes, pies and candy to eat, limiting calories and cholesterol also becomes difficult during the holidays. It isn't so important to worry about eating a large meal on a major holiday. However, it's better not to let this sort of eating extend many days afterward.
One way to prevent excessive eating is to purchase holiday foods in quantities which don't produce too many leftovers. For example, one person or a small family needn't buy an entire turkey. Keeping a detailed list of things you eat might also help cut down on the calories, especially if you update it after every snack.
It's best to limit eating things like hard candy and coconut-based chocolates. Small candy canes (or pieces of them) are less harmful to your teeth, because they don't become coated in sugar for as long a time before you can brush them. Remember to drink alcoholic beverages, egg nog and hot chocolate in moderation.
Following these tips should help you experience a pleasant holiday season without neglecting health and fitness. As long as you remain aware of your actions and uphold healthy behavior in general, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a holiday meal, staying inside during a snow storm, or relaxing with a movie.
|
Get NetZero Internet for as low as $6.95 per month! |