Robin Paget, from the Larkin Training Room, located at 781 Seneca Street has graciously shared her tips for maintaining good heath through the holiday season and into the new year.
Here are 5 actionable steps to help maintain your fitness and nutrition over the holidays:
1. Try to walk at least 2 miles every day.
Sedentary behavior is a silent pandemic among Americans. We’re all guilty of at least one Netflix binge over the last six months, right? But just a small dose of activity can go a long way to maintaining your fitness over the holidays and help you stay consistent at some form of exercise. Think of your two-miles worth of steps as your minimum dose of fitness each day.
2. Take advantage of the fall “superfoods.”
Here in Western New York, we have abundant quantities of healthy fall/winter vegetables, like pumpkins, sweet potatoes, winter squash, beets, brussel sprouts, and cranberries. These vegetables are packed with nutrients that will help boost your health and immune system. Try to find recipes that minimize added sugar. I find that roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and flavor without the added sugar. And while you’re at it, try to limit your consumption of “booze” and eat slowly!
3. Join a virtual fitness class!
Most of Erie County has just entered the “orange” zone, and gyms have closed again. However, gyms and fitness centers have already grown adept at offering classes virtually. Find a gym you like and see what their virtual offerings are! Virtual classes will not only help you stay fit, but they will help you connect with other people during a potentially lonely time. My studio, Larkin Training Room, is offering drop- in virtual classes for $10 each. You can find and reserve classes at larkintrainingroom.zenplanner.com.
4. Get outside.
Yes, it’s Western New York, and yes, it’s cold. But a dose of nature can boost your mood and reduce stress. We have many beautiful parks, both waterfront and inland, in this region.
5. Incorporate movement snacks in your day.
Workouts don’t have to be long to be effective. Just small bouts of movement add up over the course of the day. Use a work break to stand up and do a few yoga poses. Or if you’re watching the Bills game, get up during halftime to do some squats and jumping jacks. Run up and down the stairs a few times after walking the dog. These micro-bouts of exercise during the day add up!
Above all, take a deep breath. This holiday season will be challenging, but let’s all try to stay healthy and safe with these action steps!