So the big question is how will you handle the holidays and still stay fit, healthy and guilt free from all the tasty temptations?

Here’s some tips for what to do over the holidays that may be relevant;

•  Do some higher intense exercise on the day of indulging. Research has suggested that high intense exercise 3 hours prior to a fatty meal will help burn the fat portion from the meal.

• Limit carbohydrate if you ‘over- indulge’ the day after also and stick to lean meats, fresh vegetables (above the ground) and perhaps some fruit after a low intense exercise. tart the day with some healthy fats like a Sunday cook up of eggs, lean bacon, tomato, mushrooms, spinach and then perhaps two hours later and at least 2 litres of water to for a walk / ride for say 60-80 minutes and make the most of the day.

• Opt for weight maintenance over the holidays. Attempting to continue weight loss over Christmas may set you up for failure. If this sounds like you, aim to keep your weight stable.
• If you do indulge, keep the number of indulgent days to a minimum. Sure, you may celebrate Xmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, but be aware that a month-long feeding frenzy can take its toll of your waist line. Try to balance it out as we have done with the our online nutrition plan atwww.pushbodytransformation.com.au where you can sign up and receive a full two week festive meal plan and much more including a weekly training and nutrition plan for fat loss, over 200 exercise videos and recipes etc.

• Inform family the week before they arrive that there is no need to bring food. You have this covered.
• Let people know you don’t want food as gifts, especially chocolates, lollies or nuts.

• Eat fewer calories during the day if you have a big evening dinner planned.

• A serve of alcohol replaces a carbohydrate portion as wine contains carbohydrates, fat, alcohol. Also try to ensure to keep it away from fatty foods as the fat in the food will be put on hold given the sugar in the wine releases insulin.

• Keep between-meal snacks in small bowls and put away packets or jars of nuts and lollies so they are out of sight.

• Keep your physical activity routine on track. An after-meal walk or backyard game will help you digest your food and counteract the calories.
• Buy the kids active presents. Examples include bicycles or sports gear.  Ask for an active present, such as gardening tools, a rock climbing course.
• Plan a family day out at the park, zoo, or indoor game centre to get people moving again after Christmas Day. Book an adventure holiday rather than a few lazy days poolside.

Be sensible a big night out is exactly that. One night so prepare for it with food and exercise during the week, on the day and the day after. You will have less guilt as you have done nothing wrong and can enjoy a treat!

Merry Christmas!

Your fitness guy…

Make it Happen