Jingle Bell(ies)

Don't let this happen to you.

As the holiday season is already in full effect we need to be weary of those holiday pounds that like to creep up on some of us. Just like many of you, I love to eat all the delicious fixings that are prepared for the holidays. If your family is anything like my family, you have all types of good food readily at your fingertips from Thanksgiving through the New Year. However, don't let the great food prevent you from keeping your eye on the prize...

I love my mac and cheese just as much as the next man but everyone must tackle the holiday season with a plan, especially if you LOVE food. Here are some tips to help you put your plan into action.

Be Consistent with your Workout Routine
You have to maintain your workout schedule or establish one. 4-5 days a week for at least 30 minutes is okay if you're trying to maintain your current weight. Increase the duration and intensity if you are trying to lose weight. If you aren't working out regularly don't be surprised if those pounds creep up and slap you in the face.  Stay committed to your routine!

Pack your Lunch and Snacks
Everybody has a coworker or two who loves to bring in treats during the holidays. I have a coworker who is a wonderful baker. She makes this pumpkin roll that makes me want to slap my mama...repeatedly. However, by packing my own snacks I avoid the urge to snack on her delicious baked goods. If you desire something sweet pack a sweet, yet healthy snack, if you yearn for something salty, almonds may do the trick. Also, by packing your lunch you control what goes into your body. If your job is having a luncheon, sign up to bring something. You can bring a healthy dish so at least you have one healthy option. Don't feel obligated to eat what they eat because they don't have to squeeze into your jeans. "Are those Jordache jeans you're wearing??"

Don't Deprive Yourself
When you're gathering around the buffet of goodies for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or whichever holiday you celebrate, don't deny yourself a taste of some of your  favorite foods. Now, don't pile your plate mile high with that potato salad but a taste is not going to kill you. I will be the first to tell you that I have some of everything that I love during the holiday festivities and I refuse to feel guilty about it. The thing to remember is that if you have been consistent with your workouts and you have been consistently eating healthy, these small indulgences will not impact your weight goals. If you deprive yourself, you risk overeating. Enjoy the food but don't over do it.

Join a Weight Loss Challenge
Many gyms offer weight loss competitions during the holiday seasons. It's a great way to set fitness goals for yourself and also keep the beast at bay. The beast being those pounds. Even if you only win a t-shirt you've accomplished something. Although, the t-shirt would be more than enough for me. If you're not a member of a gym get with a group of coworkers or friends and set up a weight loss challenge. Everyone can chip in five bucks and the prize can be a gift card purchased with the five dollar buy in fee. Get creative!

Be Realistic
The holiday season is a time to enjoy your family, friends, and the food that goes along with it. Don't set goals for yourself that you know are going to be too difficult to achieve. Losing 20 pounds two weeks before that big Christmas dinner is unlikely and can be stressful. However, maintaining your current weight or shedding 2-5 pounds is very possible. Make conscious food choices. Scan your options before fixing your plate so that you can be a smart eater. Don't forget to get your workouts in...go hard or go home.

Making a holiday fitness and health plan will help you stave away those jingle bell(ies). I encourage everyone to make healthy living a priority and not an after thought.

Peace and Happy Holidays!!