Slimmers can 'stay healthy and keep fit' over Christmas with 5 'key' tips
The festive period is often disruptive to fitness regimens
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Staying active and eating well is something most people will prioritise year-round, but sticking to well-curated routines can become more challenging amid Christmas travel plans and festive socialising.
Taking note of five pieces of advice can help slimmers stay on track with their goals over the next few weeks.
Fitness expert and boxing trainer from Geezers Boxing Leon Bolmeer said gentle activity, mindful eating and taking rest days can all be useful at this time of year.
He explained following this advice can help you to "stay healthy and keep fit while still enjoying Christmas".
Britons should be mindful when indulging this Christmas
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Mindful eating
When it comes to diet, Leon recommended taking note of when you feel hungry or full to limit overeating. He said: “It’s essential to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
"Rather than feeling compelled to burn off calories, focus on eating in a balanced, mindful way. When you feel hungry, it’s your body telling you it needs nourishment, and when you’re full, it’s a sign to stop.
"Taking a flexible approach to food and exercise, and giving yourself permission to rest when needed, will help you maintain a healthy mindset through the season.
"Planning ahead is key if you want to stay on track with your health goals during the holidays. Preparing healthy, filling meals in advance suited to your dietary goals can help avoid the temptation of late-night eating on unhealthy snacks.”
Alternative ways to stay active
Lengthy intense gym sessions can be swapped for easier-to-manage workouts at this time of year. Leon continued: “If you are concerned about missing exercise during the holidays, remember there are other ways to stay active.
"A brisk 15- to 30-minute walk after meals can help regulate blood sugar and boost your mood. You can also stretch, meditate, or take time to relax and recharge.
"These activities are just as important for your well-being and can be great substitutes for traditional workouts during the busy holiday period.”
Home workouts
Similarly, switching to home workouts is often more realistic when enjoying cosy festive days spent indoors. The expert said: "Online workout videos are great and cost-effective options for staying active at home with thousands of short, flexible workouts that are effective and easy to follow.
"Whether you’re following a well-known fitness personality or a routine that suits your pace, these home exercises mean you don’t have to stop your fitness progress just because you’re at home."
Resting
The expert explained: “Exercise is about overall health, not just burning calories. It’s important to recognise that rest days are just as vital to your fitness routine as the days you spend working out.
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Going for a walk can be a gentle way to burn calories over the festive period
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"During rest, your muscles repair and rebuild, which helps improve strength and prevent injury. Taking a break allows your body to recover, reducing the risk of burnout and helping you stay motivated in the long term.”
Find a balance
Ultimately, dieters do not need to put lots of pressure on themselves at this time of year, and they should enjoy all the treats the festive season has to offer.
Leon added: “The holiday season doesn’t need to be a time of guilt or stress about exercise.
"While many feel pressured to compensate for indulgent meals, it’s important to remember that taking a break from your usual workout routine isn’t harmful to your health. Fitness gains are built over time, and missing a few days or even a week won’t undo your progress.”
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