Our Tips for Staying Active this Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of festive preparations, family gatherings, and delicious indulgences. While it’s a time to celebrate and unwind, it’s crucial not to disregard our physical well-being and staying active.

This time of year, we often encounter clients who are eager to improve their fitness during the holiday season; so in this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of being mindful not to increase how much sport or heavy work you do around the house too quickly, offer tips on easing into exercise, and discuss practical ways to stay active over the Christmas holidays.

Balancing Exercise and Rest

The first thing we like to emphasise is the need for a careful balance between activity and rest. During the holidays, it’s easy to get carried away with ambitious fitness goals, spend hours on end in the garden or playing one too many games of backyard cricket with the kids! Striking the right balance is key to preventing injuries and maintaining overall well-being.

Persistent aches, sharp pains, or increased stiffness could be indicative of underlying issues that require attention. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your physiotherapist or exercise physiologist if you notice any new aches or pains, or changes in your usual symptoms. We’re here to support you in managing your health, even during the busiest of times, and addressing concerns promptly can prevent minor issues from developing into more significant challenges.

Our tips!

Set Realistic Goals: Rather than diving headfirst into an intense workout routine, set realistic and achievable goals. Whether it’s a 20-minute brisk walk, a short yoga session, or a swim at the local pool, start with activities that are within your current fitness level.
Gradual Progression: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is your fitness. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to allow your body to adapt. This approach not only reduces the risk of injuries but also makes it more likely that you’ll stick to your exercise routine to achieve your longer term goals.
Incorporate Variety: Keep things interesting by incorporating a variety of exercises into your routine. This not only prevents boredom but also helps your body develop strength, flexibility and fitness in different ways.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signals from your body. If you experience pain or discomfort, it’s essential to address it promptly rather than pushing through. Chat to us if you’re unsure about the suitability of certain exercises or if you need guidance on modifications.

Staying Active During the Holiday Season

Family-Friendly Activities: Make staying active a family affair. Plan outdoor activities such as nature walks, bike rides, or a friendly game of soccer. Not only does this promote physical activity, but it also creates lasting memories with loved ones.
Holiday Workouts: Incorporate exercise into your holiday festivities. Whether it’s a morning jog, a family dance-off, or a post-dinner stroll, find opportunities to move.
Home Workouts: For those who prefer the comfort of home, there are plenty of effective workouts that require minimal equipment. From bodyweight exercises, prescribed programs from your exercise physiologist or physiotherapist to online workout videos & telehealth appointments, there’s a wide array of options to choose from. We can even arrange a telehealth consultation to help supervise your workout if you need a bit of extra help.
Prioritise Recovery: Amidst the holiday hustle, don’t forget the importance of rest and recovery. Ensure you get adequate sleep, stay hydrated, and take time for relaxation activities too..

The holiday season shouldn’t be a hiatus from your commitment to health and fitness. By adopting a mindful approach to activities & easing into exercise, you can incorporate enjoyable activities into holiday routines, and balance well-being with the festive spirit.

If you’re experiencing any discomfort, pain, or need guidance on staying active safely, don’t hesitate to contact us.

To book with any of our experienced & qualified allied health staff, you can: