CHRISTMAS TIPS FROM THE CF CREW
There is so much advice out there about how to tackle the holiday season stress-free and guilt-free.
Have a question? Throw it in Google and you are bound to get an answer, probably many and if you search long enough you will likely find the answer you want.
Like most things, there are many "ways to skin a cat". It is not often you find one idea or piece of advice that suits everyone. So, we asked some of the crew at Central Fitness what their best piece of advice was for their members, clients, friends, family and readers.
Consider this article your Google search engine, keep reading and you are bound to find some advice that will suit you.
Rede's Advice
"It would be alright if we ate to excess only at Christmas lunch or dinner - after all it's just one day. The problem comes when we eat the same over an entire holiday season.
"Avoid buying so much yummy food that you have to eat it for a week or more after Christmas and thus incrementally gain weight that's even harder to shift come New Year. "Savour your Christmas Day food THEN immediately starting Boxing Day - plate up healthy sized portions beginning with your usual breakfast....
"Enjoy your holidays everyone."
Sueann & Michelle's Advice
"It’s been a challenging year for us all, so our wee tip for the festive season is to alternate a glass of water with every alcoholic beverage. Much like we are doing in the photo.
"Enjoy your time with loved ones, don’t be too hard on yourself and Christmas only happens once a year.
"Merry Christmas, see you in the new year!"
Jonny's Advice
"This is your time to chill. Ironically, a lot of us get stressed out at holiday time. So, lock this in your head. It's chill time baby!
Running late for a get together, someone cuts you off while driving, burnt the Christmas turkey... meh! It doesn't matter. What does matter is that you make some time for your friends, your family, and yourself.
We are very lucky to have what we have. So deep breath, take it all in, and chill.
Shane's Advice
"Remember when you want to make a change in your behaviour for the 2022 year, stick to these 4 simple building blocks
Make it obvious - keep your routine as specific as possible (so you don't need huge motivation to keep it)
Make it attractive / enjoyable - train with a friend, choose fun things.
Make it easy - start with things that don't feel too straining.
Make it satisfying - small goals achieved each session / week and reward yourself after completing a step (no matter how small you may think it is).
Merry Christmas, enjoy your festive season, make a plan for 2022 and as always, I am here to help."
Hannes' Advice
"Firstly, you should never binge eat because you have been exercising and you should never exercise so that you can binge eat but, my advice would be to stay in front of the curve as much as possible.
"So with that in mind I would suggest, exercising as much as possible, ideally early in the morning. Get it done and get it out of the way. It is easier when you are fresh in the morning. It is likely that later in the day, after you have been doing things with your friends and family, you will feel more jaded and will lack the motivation.
"This does not mean you should get in the habit of going and binging after a workout but on Christmas it certainly makes it easier and more guilt free after you have done a workout.
"This same tip applies to your sleep and your water intake, stay in front of the curve, stick to a routine as much as you can.
"Merry Christmas and enjoy the festive season."
Alex's Advice
"It always feels like those around me are busy impressing others, with their gifts, their food and their holiday snaps. My advice to you is to slow down, be present, truly present with the people that matter most, including yourself.
"If you are hosting a Christmas lunch, share the load, make it simple. You don't want to be in the kitchen fussing and missing out on the party.
"Your time is the ultimate gift, when someone gives you theirs, treasure it and be present with them.
Go have fun and enjoy this time with your loved ones. Maybe enjoy a bike ride or hike with them.