If the daily exercise routine has taken a nosedive in the midst of holiday revelries, there's still time to commit to fitness resolutions you made so eagerly at the turn of the New Year... so you can trim down for the oncoming year.
Getting and staying in shape over the holidays can be a one of the biggest challenges of the season - even more challenging than getting that holiday gift list in order and battling the crowds during the pre-holiday mall chaos - so you'll need a plan to get through the season without piling on the pounds. If you're in dire need of a quick winter workout, add some of these shape-up strategies to your weekly schedule:
Become a Crack-of-Dawn Master
When the daily schedule is booked solid, being an early riser can give you a much-needed head start on the day's events. Wake yourself up with an invigorating workout and you'll be well on your way to a successful day. Head outdoors for a quick run or pack up that duffel bag for a quick circuit training session at the gym so you can greet the sunrise and get that workout off the to-do list.
Team up with a Fitness Buddy
Working out with someone else holds you accountable for your gym appointment, walking session or other physical activities you know you should be doing but just seem to be ignoring lately. Team up with a friend, coworker or family member to log time doing some form of exercise together. Having someone counting on you to get off that couch may very well make your fitness resolutions for the year.
Mall Walk for the Calorie Burn
If you're intent on shopping up a storm this holiday season, a good portion of your shopping time might involve trekking across the mall in search of the latest sales and specials. Make a date with your walking shoes and head out on an early-morning mall walking session to map out your plan. This will give you a chance to catch a glimpse of sales and offers in store windows. When push comes to shove on sale day, you'll have a shopping route ready to go!