Flexible Fitness: How to Make Time for Exercise in December

fitness habits healthy healthy tips holiday routines Dec 01, 2023

December—the month that fills our calendars with holiday parties, end-of-year deadlines, and family commitments. While the "December chaos" often sees fitness routines taking a backseat, it doesn't have to be that way. In this blog post, you'll discover actionable strategies to prioritize exercise, even amidst the December rush. After all, self-care isn't a luxury; it's a necessity.

Treat Yourself Like a Priority

When December arrives, our attention gets pulled in a dozen different directions. It's easy to feel like there's no time for anything, let alone a workout. However, neglecting your fitness can have cascading effects on your overall well-being.

Think of self-care as your oxygen mask. Taking care of yourself first makes you better equipped to support your loved ones. Remember, caring for yourself isn't selfish—it's necessary.

The Three-Day Plan

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of planning your entire week's worth of exercise? Start with the next three days. Look at your calendar and spot the time gaps—those 20 to 30-minute slots where you can squeeze in some physical activity.

Example: You notice that you have a half-hour free after dropping the kids off at school and before your first meeting starts. That's a perfect window for a brisk walk or a quick at-home workout session.

Be Flexible With Your Exercise Routine

Contrary to popular belief, exercise doesn't always require an hour at the gym. If your day is too packed for a regular workout, consider breaking it into smaller, more manageable sessions.

Tip: You can do three 10-minute high-intensity workouts scattered throughout the day. High intensity is the key here—more effort in less time can often yield the same benefits as a longer session.

The Million Dollar Question

Whenever you think, "I can't find the time to exercise," pause and ask, "If a million dollars were on the line, how would I make this work?" This mental shift can be surprisingly effective in helping you find creative, practical solutions to fit in a workout.

Sleep: The Underrated Powerhouse

A consistent sleep schedule is as crucial as your exercise routine. Why? Lack of sleep increases stress hormones, making it harder to stick to your fitness routine. Aim for at least seven hours a night, even during the holiday rush.

Anticipate Stress Eating

Stress and the holiday season often go hand in hand, leading many to indulge in unhealthy snacks. Keep some healthy options on hand for when you feel the urge to snack due to stress, not hunger. Eating is a normal response to relieve discomfort; it's why we crave comfort foods.

Be Ready for Obstacles

Your December schedule will throw curveballs at you. Be prepared by reading our blog post on overcoming the "hidden resistance" that can derail your healthy habits. Awareness is half the battle—once you know your triggers, you can develop countermeasures.

Bottom Line

December may be a hectic month, but it's also the perfect time to prioritize your health. With some planning, creative time management, and a commitment to yourself, you can maintain—or even improve—your fitness levels. This holiday season, gift yourself the benefits of good health. You deserve it.

Next Steps

Ready to take control of your December fitness routine? Download our free exercise planner to help you stay on track. For more tips on keeping fit during the holidays, subscribe to our newsletter.