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Christmas Health and Fitness Survival
Rate it! Votes (0) | Comments (0) By Dianne Villano Posted August 6th, 2007 FabulousFoods.com Recommends: Fitness For Dummies, by Suzanne Schlosberg, (2005, For Dummies)	Fitness For Dummies

How to Keep Yourself From Starting The New Year As Round As Santa

Okay, here it is - part 3 of our "Battling The Holiday Bulge (and winning)" series. (see the related features section below for links to parts 1 and 2).

The Average American gains 7 - 12 pounds between Halloween and New Year's and studies show that most will abandon their fitness programs.

Yes, I know, I've already said this but it bears repeating. Between the parties, high fat foods, alcohol and hectic schedules who has the time (or the inclination for that matter) to worry about exercise, never mind healthy eating?

Most people are busy putting off their healthy eating and exercise programs "until the 1st of the year." That is, until they try to get into their clothes or get a good look in the department store mirror.

There is still time to formulate a plan that will have you closer to the fitness goals on the first of the year instead of looking at an extra 7-12 pounds of ugly fat. These easy tips will help you get through the holidays with a minimum of stress and weight gain.

1. Don't try to "diet" during the holidays. Instead set a goal of trying to maintain your present weight. This way, you have a realistic goal. Since , as I have previously mentioned, the Average American gains 7-12 pounds, you will still be ahead of the game. You can allow yourself to indulge here and there, but you won't go over the edge.

2. Pay attention to how quickly you eat and exactly what you eat and drink. Chew your food slowly and focus on your companions and the social aspects of each event .

3. Remember that alcohol is packed with calories. Choose light beer and wine over mixed drinks. A holiday-sized mixed drink can have as many a 300- 500 calories or more.

4. Offer to bring a favorite low-calorie dish to holiday parties. This way you'll know there will be at least one "safe" item.

5. Make the effort to continue a regular exercise program. Find a buddy or consult with a professional to help you keep yourself on track. Aim for 2 to 3 thirty minute sessions per week (remember - a little bit is better than none).

6. Never go to a party or event on an empty stomach. Before going out, snack on protein, like chicken or cottage cheese. Protein satisfies and will help you eat less.

7. Keep an eye on your portion sizes. In the heat of celebration, portion sizes can be quite excessive.

8. Don't let a hectic holiday schedule force you to eat fast food. Prepare and freeze several quick, healthy meals. That way, you have an option other than high-fat, fast-food meals.

9. Avoid Tasting While Cooking. You will be appalled at how quickly the calories add up. Get a family member to taste the food for you.

Dianne Villano is the president of CUSTOM BODIES which has been serving the Tampa Bay with fat loss and body shaping programs since 1996, Dianne is a contributing writer for over 20 on and offline media outlets. You can grab a FREE copy of her ULTIMATE HOLIDAY FITNESS SURVIVAL GUIDE ? How to Actually Lose Weight Throughout the Holidays at www.mypersonalfitnesscoach.com

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