As we approach the holiday break, we understand that life tends to get busier with preparations, family gatherings, and the overall hustle and bustle. However, amidst the chaos, it’s crucial not to neglect the commitment we’ve made to our health and well-being. In the wise words of our good friend and fellow Fitness Coach, Mark Young:
In order to drive in Canada, you have to go through a rather lengthy process called graduated licensing. First, you get your beginner’s license and then you cannot drive without another licensed driver for up to a year. Then there’s another period after that where you are limited to driving only on certain roads. Because my birthday falls in October, I ended up taking my in-car driving lessons in the winter months when the roads were the most terrible. As you might imagine, it can get pretty cold here and we sometimes get a lot of snow and ice. During those months I learned to navigate around snowbanks, how not to crash on icy roads, and also how to anticipate and avoid obstacles that might present themselves. At the end of the lessons my instructor noted that, because I’d done them in the winter when driving is most difficult, I’d be more than able to manage driving in the summer months when it is much easier. Over the years, I’ve come to think of managing fitness and nutrition in the same way. While most people choose to start during the times that are least difficult for them, I feel that starting to make efforts during the holiday season can have an even greater potential impact in the long term. When you start during the easiest times in your life, it can pose problems when you first encounter challenges in terms of planning for and managing social engagements and so on. But if you start during the holiday season where those types of challenges already exist, you’ll learn the skills to navigate them and ultimately be more than prepared for those you might encounter during the remaining months of the year. Of course, I’m not talking about any kind of major changes or severe restrictions. I’m just talking about starting to make small lifestyle changes in the midst of regular life instead of waiting for a time that seems more “optimal”.
Embarking on your fitness journey during the holiday season may seem counterintuitive, but it can offer profound benefits. Instead of waiting for the ‘perfect’ time, why not face the challenges head-on, allowing you to build resilience and develop strategies to navigate through the hurdles that arise during this time of year? And to Mark’s point, it means when life does hit some smooth sailing, you’ve already built the necessary skills and it will feel incredibly easy.
At Lean Strong, we recognize the importance of staying active and healthy, especially when the calendar is filled with festive events and delicious treats.
Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:
- Prioritize your workouts: Schedule your gym sessions like any other important appointment. Treat them as a non-negotiable part of your routine to ensure you make time for self-care.
- Indulge mindfully: Enjoy the festive treats, but do so in moderation. Be mindful of your choices and savor each moment without guilt.
- Set realistic goals: Understand that the holiday season may bring about schedule changes. Adjust your fitness goals accordingly to ensure they remain attainable.
Remember, your journey towards a healthier lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint. By taking the initiative during the holiday season, you’re not just investing in your health for the present, but also preparing yourself for a year-round commitment. Wishing you all a joyful and active holiday season!
