Avoiding holiday weight gain

Gaining weight over the holidays—who doesn’t? We socialize more, eat and drink more, and have less time and desire to trek off to the gym. Now that 2013 is right around the corner, it’s time to break those bad habits and get back into a healthy routine. Even if you don’t have time to do your normal exercise, try making an effort to go outside and walk around for 15 to 20 minutes each day.  

A simple 15 to 20 minute walk per day can reduce your risk by up to 1/3 of developing Type ll Diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.  All that for a simple, short, and enjoyable walk.

Have you ever wondered why people used to go caroling?  Perhaps they knew it was a simple way of getting the whole group to be active, socialize a bit, and burn some calories all while having some simple fun. Caroling may not be for all of us, but maybe this year you can think up some fun ways to incorporate exercise into your holiday routine. 

Second helping of turkey? Sounds good! But only once you've danced a few minutes with your partner after that kiss under the mistletoe. Want a slice of pumpkin pie?  No problem.  How about 5 pushups per bite? Add some ice cream?  Sure, but after 10 sit-ups. Want to watch "It's A Wonderful Life" again? Every time the bell rings stand up and walk in place for the next 5 minutes! Get everyone involved, they'll be thankful, too!

Get the idea?  It may not be the most fun you've ever had, but after the holidays are over and your waistline is unchanged or smaller, you will be thanking yourself for months to come.