It’s December and the Christmas Parties and family gatherings are kicking off. It’s a big time of year for social get-togethers, that often focus around eating and drinking.
For some this could be a stressful time of the year, thinking about all the hard work you’ve put in the gym for the past 12 months and you’re worried you’ll ‘lose your gains’ during the Christmas period.
The good news is that you can enjoy the magic of Christmas without compromising your fitness journey. Let’s chat about how you can find a perfect balance between savoring the moment and maintaining your hard-earned gains at the gym.
Prioritise Your Workouts:
The calendar is jam-packed with activities, we get it. So, it’s more important now to plan ahead and schedule in the days when you can get in your workouts. Schedule your CrossFit sessions and treat them as non-negotiable appointments. You might have one or two less sessions each than your typical week and that's ok. Don’t over-reach by expecting to still hit 5 sessions in a week, but plan for the sessions you can do and commit to them, wholeheartedly. Not only will this help you stay on track with your fitness goals, but it will also provide a much-needed stress outlet during the busy holiday season.
Get outside and Play:
Instead of viewing your workouts as a solo endeavor and limited just to the gym, make them a family affair. If you’re heading to the beach with the family or the dogs - join in the fun. Not only will this create memorable moments, but it will also keep everyone active and engaged in a healthy activity.
Embrace Festive Nutrition:
Eat the dessert.
Yes, it’s ok. Christmas Day is just one day of the year, you will not undo all your hard work by eating one dessert. Do your best to fuel up on lean proteins, veggies and healthy fats when you can but don’t stress yourself out about enjoying Nan’s famous pavlova. Moderation is key, but there is no reason why you can’t enjoy a fabulous lunch with your family, enjoy the dessert and still keep your health goals on track.
Stay Hydrated:
Amidst all the festive drinks, don't forget the importance of staying hydrated. Water plays a crucial role in digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you plan to have a few drinks at the Staff Christmas party. You’ll thank me later.
Rest and Recover:
The holiday season can be demanding, and it's essential to prioritise recovery. Ensure you get enough sleep, practice stress-reducing activities, and consider incorporating active recovery days into your routine. Your body will thank you, and you'll be better equipped to tackle your workouts with enthusiasm.
This Christmas, find joy in the balance between celebration and fitness. The holidays are about enjoying time with loved ones. So don’t stress too much! Try to embrace a mindful approach to nutrition, you can enjoy the holiday season without compromising your CrossFit gains. Remember, it's about creating lasting memories and nurturing your well-being, so you can enter the new year with both festive cheer and feel refreshed, ready to smash those 2024 goals.