The holiday season is upon us, which means an array of holiday get-togethers, sugar cookies, good cheer and temptation to stray from your workout routine. Try these tips from our team of Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists to help you stay on track—even during the holidays.
David Flanigan, facility manager at Surprise
Tip: Move well and move often. During the holidays many of us travel which means an inordinate amount of time sitting. Make a conscious effort to get up and move around in order to offset this lack of movement and the additional calories you will be consuming.
Add in some sort of mobility and/or strength training for at least 30 minutes a day. This can be done with little to no equipment, so don’t let the excuse of staying at a hotel or with relatives sneak up on you. Dynamic and static stretches, planks, bridges, push-ups, squats, lunges, step-ups, chair dips, and towel pulls are great options if you’re not able to get to the gym. Not to mention, Thera-bands can be easily tossed into your suitcase to add extra resistance to these exercises.
Wade Haras, facility manager at Old Town Scottsdale
Tip: Before you allow yourself a splurge, do something healthy like eating a piece of fruit, walking around the office for five minutes, or climbing a few flights of stairs.
Sit next to a fellow healthy eater (there’s strength in numbers). Or sidle up to that uncle who eats slowly, so his pace can slow yours.
Kyle Schneider, facility manager at Ahwatukee
Tip: During the holidays it’s easy to use having guests in town as an excuse to skip a workout. Use guests as a motivator and plan something fun for everyone to do together! Whether it’s group training session, a hike, or some sort of holiday event, it’s always fun and motivating to get a group together!
Kyle Decker, facility manager at Arrowhead
Tip: Enjoy a small bowl of broth based soup prior to a big meal. The broth will take up space so you eat less and the warmth makes you feel fuller faster.
Interested in kick stating your 2017 health initiatives early? Learn about our New Year’s Revolution program available at all 10 valleywide locations—after all, December is the new January.
Foothills Acceleration and Sports Training (FAST) is empowered by Foothills Therapy Partners (FTP).