Maruchy Lachance is president of Running Ninja!, a lifestyle brand for runners by runners. Running Ninja! offers a wide variety of apparel and gifts for runners to keep you happy and inspired while you’re on the run.
One of my favorite quotes is: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” This could not be more true than when we try to maintain a healthy weight and exercise program.
Many people think that weight loss and commitment to exercise is about will-power, but that is only half of it. The real work comes when you are face-to-face with temptation; whether that is serving yourself seconds or ignoring your appointment at the gym. This is why developing a plan prior to having these temptations derail your hard work is the key to success.
Family holiday feasts are the toughest terrain to navigate. Well-meaning grandmothers want to load your plate up with your childhood favorites. Parents will insist you take seconds. Friends will be hurt if you don’t try their specialty dish. My strategy in these events is fairly simple and fair. I will simply take one tablespoon of every item available. Pleasing everyone without overfilling myself.
If anyone attempts to load my plate, it is gently pulled away and the food loader is told that if I am still hungry when I am done, I will go back for more. Be prepared ahead of time to say “No.” Imagine those sweet faces ordering you to fill your tummy with a giant ladle of guilt!
As for your exercise regime, the holidays can make you sacrifice your fitness goals. Avoid sabotaging yourself; try adapting your exercise schedule to fit your upcoming holiday obligations. Long nights may cut into your morning routine, so try to fit your exercising during lunch, or right after work. Or simply determine at what time you will have to leave a party to be home early enough to honor your commitment to your healthy lifestyle.
By maintaining an honest dialog with yourself and being an advocate for your health and fitness goals you will be able to set the necessary limits and expectations to empower you and help you through the tempting holidays, as well as throughout your life.
For more fitness inspiration from Maruchy Lachance check out:
Lasting Weight Loss: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Lose Baby Weight with Low-Impact Exercise
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