Happy Holiday… Workouts?

Syracuse, NY – The holiday season is a time to share with friends and family. But it is also a time of year in which many people fall susceptible to putting on a few extra pounds. There are several steps you can take to stay in shape over the holidays.

Stay Active!
One of the top causes of weight gain during the holidays is lack of activity. People are busy doing holiday errands and spending time with their families. The last thing they want to worry about is working out. They are more tired and less motivated.

Such is the case for Syracuse University student Michael Rios. “Usually during the holidays, after all of the holiday food, I’m not too keen on going to the gym.”

However Rios admits that exercising during the holidays is imperative.

“It’s very important,” said Rios. “I mean if you don’t do it, you suffer the consequences.”

Personal Trainer Ali Cousins works at Fitness Forum in Fayetteville. She believes that even a minimal amount of activity can make all of the difference.

“A little bit is better than nothing. People think they have to go out there and crank until they’re fatigued completely. I’d recommend anywhere from 2-3 days a week in the gym. But I also encourage people to get out and about outside as much as you can. It’s all about time management. I would say not to spend more than an hour in the gym. It’s unrealistic. We’re not gonna make that happen in our busy lives.”

Eat Healthy
Everyone enjoys sweets during the holiday season. Whether it is pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving or Christmas morning cookies, many people are prone to go off of their daily diets.

But guess what? It’s ok! Well… as long as it’s in moderation.

“The biggest thing is to be realistic about what you eat at the holidays,” said Cousins. “We look very forward to the food around the holidays so I would say restriction is not the answer. It’s all about moderation.”

Enjoy the sweets and good food around the holidays. Just make sure not to over do it and remember, a holiday is a DAY, not a week, month, or year.

Happy Holidays!