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
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
Ready to take the next step? Unlock MyFitnessPal Premium to access custom goal settings, quick-log recipes, and guided plans from a registered dietitian. Premium users are 65% more likely to reach their weight loss goals!