How to Stay Fit and Healthy Over Christmas Without Missing Out on the Festive Fun!
Ah, Christmas! That magical time of year when mince pies appear in every cupboard, mulled wine flows freely, and you can’t move once the food coma has set in! It’s a season to eat, drink, and be merry… but it’s also when fitness routines tend to slide, and we promise ourselves that January will fix everything.
But what if I told you that you can stay fit and healthy over Christmas while still enjoying all the festive cheer? You don’t need to sacrifice the pudding or skip the parties – you just need a plan. And that’s where a little festive fitness magic (and perhaps a personal trainer) comes in.
Here’s my guide to staying on top of your health during the holidays without turning into a Christmas Grinch.
1. Make a Plan – Even Santa Has a Schedule
Christmas is busy. Between shopping, cooking, socialising, and searching for the perfect present for Aunt Mabel, it can feel like there’s no time to breathe, let alone work out. That’s why planning is crucial.
Block out some time each week for exercise – even 20-30 minutes can make a difference. If you’re struggling to stick to it, that’s where working with a personal trainer comes in handy. Whether you’re in Woking, Guildford, or Cobham, a mobile fitness coach like me can come to your home, keeping your workouts efficient and convenient. No excuses!
2. Incorporate Festive Fitness Fun
Who says exercise can’t be Christmassy? Get creative with your workouts:
Christmas Circuit: Turn your living room into a gym. Use tins of Quality Street as weights, or do squats while holding your Christmas turkey (okay, maybe not if it’s defrosted!).
Family Fitness: Challenge your kids to a snowball fight or race them in the park. Even walking around a Christmas market can count as cardio.
Festive Challenges: Try a "12 Days of Christmas" workout where you add an exercise each day, like a fitness advent calendar.
A personal fitness trainer can help you come up with festive-themed routines that are fun, effective, and tailored to your goals.
3. Don’t Fear the Food, But Be Mindful
Christmas food is a delight, and I’d never suggest skipping it altogether. However, balance is key. Enjoy the treats you love, but keep portion sizes reasonable. If you’re indulging in a big Christmas dinner, go lighter at breakfast or lunch.
Pro tip: Fill your plate with plenty of veggies before piling on the roasties and stuffing. And for those moments of temptation (hello, third slice of yule log), remind yourself of your goals.
A weight loss trainer can help you stay on track without feeling deprived. I’ve worked with clients in areas like Esher and Walton-on-Thames to navigate the tricky waters of festive feasting, ensuring they enjoy the season while staying on target.
4. Stay Active, Even in Small Ways
Over Christmas, every little bit counts. Can’t fit in a full workout? That’s okay. Small bursts of activity can still make a big difference:
Take the stairs instead of the lift when out shopping.
Park further away from the shops to get extra steps in.
Dance like nobody’s watching at your Christmas party (burns calories and boosts your mood!).
If you’re unsure how to squeeze fitness into your schedule, a personal trainer near you can provide tailored advice.
5. Keep Hydrated (and Not Just with Mulled Wine)
Staying hydrated is essential year-round, but it’s especially important during the festive season when alcohol and rich foods can leave you feeling sluggish. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Bonus tip: Sip a glass of water between festive tipples to pace yourself and reduce the dreaded next-day hangover.
6. Prioritise Sleep – Even Elves Need Rest
Late-night parties, early morning shopping sprees, and endless Christmas films can leave you sleep-deprived. But skipping sleep can affect your energy levels, mood, and even your metabolism. Aim for 7-9 hours a night to keep your body and mind in top shape.
7. Stay Mindful of Stress
While Christmas is meant to be a joyful time, it can also be stressful with endless to-do lists and family obligations. Stress can affect your fitness goals and lead to emotional eating. Take time for yourself – even just 10 minutes of deep breathing or a short yoga session can help.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that exercise is a fantastic stress reliever. A brisk walk or quick workout with your personal trainer can do wonders for your mood.
8. Use Technology to Stay Accountable
There are countless apps and gadgets to help you stay on track during the festive season. From step counters to calorie trackers, technology can provide that extra nudge of motivation. Or, if you prefer a personal touch, why not work with a personal trainer at home? Having someone guide and support you can make all the difference.
9. Make Time for Recovery
Don’t underestimate the importance of recovery during the holidays. Between workouts, parties, and festive errands, your body needs time to recharge. Incorporate stretching, foam rolling, or even a gentle yoga session into your routine to keep your body feeling its best.
10. Start the New Year Strong
While it’s tempting to write off December and declare that “January is when I’ll get fit,” why not get a head start? Staying active over Christmas means you’ll already have momentum when the New Year rolls around.
If you’re looking for motivation to kick things off, why not try working with a personal trainer? Whether you’re in Woking, Guildford, or Weybridge, I’m here to help you achieve your goals. And as a mobile fitness trainer, I bring the gym to you – no need to brave the January crowds.
Why Choose Ben Coleman Fitness This Festive Season?
Christmas is a time for giving, and what better gift to give yourself (or a loved one) than the gift of health? Here’s why working with me is a game-changer:
Convenience: As a mobile personal trainer, I come to you, whether you’re in Chobham, Oxshott, or Walton-on-Thames. No more battling traffic or finding a babysitter.
Personalised Plans: Every client is different, and I tailor workouts to suit your needs, goals, and schedule.
Support and Motivation: It’s easy to skip workouts when you’re on your own. With me by your side, you’ll have someone to keep you accountable and cheer you on.
Proven Results: From weight loss to strength building, I’ve helped clients across Surrey achieve their goals.
A Little Christmas Cheer to Finish
Staying fit and healthy over Christmas doesn’t mean saying no to everything that makes the season special. It’s about finding balance, being mindful, and making fitness a part of your festive fun. And if you need a helping hand, you know where to find me.
So, whether you’re searching for a personal trainer in Guildford, or someone who can bring a festive touch to your fitness journey, look no further than Ben Coleman Fitness.
Let’s make this Christmas your healthiest yet – mince pie in hand and all!
Let’s Get Started!
Ready to feel fitter, stronger, and healthier this Christmas? Contact me today to book your first session or to find out more about my personalised mobile personal training services. Whether you’re in Esher, Cobham, Walton-on-Thames, or beyond, I’ll help you achieve your goals without sacrificing the joy of the season.
Visit www.bencolemanfitness.com or give me a call to get started. Let’s make your fitness journey merry and bright!
Merry Christmas!
Ben x
