4 Ways to Squeeze in More Steps Over the Holidays

by Emily Abbate
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4 Ways to Squeeze in More Steps Over the Holidays

During the holidays, family and friends take priority, and it’s easy for normal routines to get pushed to the side. When you’re cooking for guests or waiting in long lines at the store, it can feel like you don’t have time for trips to the gym or even at-home workouts.

However, instead of letting your goals and healthy habits get derailed, focus on ways you can squeeze more steps and activity into your holidays by incorporating your family.

4 WAYS TO SQUEEZE IN MORE STEPS
OVER THE HOLIDAYS

1. SIGN UP FOR A TURKEY TROT

Local races give the whole crew an opportunity to get up and move together. The good news is those turkey trots aren’t just for runners. Instead of focusing on pace, make a commitment to cross the start and finish line as a team. Discuss a racing plan — like alternating between jogging for 5 minutes and walking for 3 minutes — to help you get there together.

2. MAKE A FAMILY TRIP TO THE FARMERS MARKET

When you’re buying all of the ingredients for the holiday spread — from homemade stuffing to your brother’s signature sweet potato mash — there’s a lot of ground to cover. Instead of doing it at a standard grocery store, go to a farmers market and bring your family. Not only will you have the opportunity to increase your step count, but you’ll also be able to take in the fresh air, find peak produce and support small farms. Not only are fresh fruits and vegetables full of antioxidants and micronutrients, but buying local is a great way to give back to your community.

3. TAKE A WALK AFTER DESSERT

After a big meal, taking a walk together instead of sitting at the table or watching TV is simply a smart move. It’ll help with digestion and is a way to get some extra quality family time. Planning the walk for before dessert is another option that might get people to walk a little faster.

4. HOST A HOLIDAY SCAVENGER HUNT

Start a new family custom of organizing a scavenger hunt once everyone descends on your home for quality time. If it’s during Thanksgiving, you can hide small pieces of paper with everyone’s name on it. The name each family member finds during the scavenger hunt is the person they will give a small gift to come December.

Originally published November 2018, updated November 2022

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About the Author

Emily Abbate

Emily has written for GQ, Self, Shape and Runner’s World (among others). As a certified personal trainer, run and spin coach, she’s often tackling long runs or lifting heavy things. In addition to that, she’s working on Hurdle, a podcast that talks to badass humans and entrepreneurs who got through a tough time —a hurdle of sorts— by leaning into wellness.

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