Happy Healthy Holiday

Hello!

 

Welcome to the new Blast Fitness blog. My aim is to inspire you weekly with all things health and fitness. Check back often for recipes, workout programs, inspirational stories and tid bits to make following a healthy, fit lifestyle a little bit easier.

 

As the holidays are just around the corner, my first post gives you some easy tips to follow over the next few weeks as trips to the gym likely decrease and holiday party-going likely increases. First of all, the easiest, cheapest and most convenient form of exercise over the holidays is walking (or running). Before you sit down to your December 25th feast, take a few family members and head out for a brisk walk. Brisk being the key term here – you should be able to maintain a conversation albeit laboured as you walk through your neighbourhood. Aim for at least 20 minutes and repeat on Boxing Day! We all know, you cannot out train a bad diet. Read: no matter how much walking around the neighbourhood occurs over the holidays, if you eat more than your fair share of christmas cookies the battle of the bulge will be that much more of a battle. For example, a one-cup serving of eggnog comes in at 210 calories, and if you add a shot of rum increase the total to 268. A 150 lb woman would have to walk for 45 minutes at a pace of 4mph (brisk!) to burn 268 calories.

 

Tips to enjoy the holidays the healthy way:
1. Eat smaller meals every 3-4 hours.
2. Fill up on vegetables – for snacks, at meals, at holiday parties.
3. Consume fiber, protein and healthy fats during meals to stay fuller for longer.
4. Bring a healthy appetizer to gatherings.

5. Aim to be active every day – this can be a 20 minute walk or a yoga class with a friend or family member.

6. Enjoy the foods you love, but stay within reasonable portion control.

 

Have a great holiday!

 

Sincerely,

Lana