jolly and round
Filed Under Tips & Tricks | November 26, 2008
Let’s face it, the holiday season, with its parties and treats, is here. We asked local trainer Hayley McGowan of Baby Bumps Fitness to help us create a fun plan that will ensure you’ll still be able to zip up your pants come January.
When your tot hears the words jolly and round their minds automatically turn to their favourite white haired, bearded man up north. However, mum and dad’s jolly and round post holiday bellies tend not to bring as much joy.
Staying fit throughout the holidays is tough and it is obvious why most North Americans will gain one to two pounds every year during this time. Since you probably have more family time over the holidays why not put your gym membership on hold and get your exercise while having fun together? Try snow tubing on the local mountains but forget the tow rope up and hike back up the hill instead. Rent some snowshoes and take the kids exploring through the wilderness. Head to the local ice rink and brush off your rusty skating skills or go for a family walk after dinner and check out the neighbourhood Christmas light displays.
Love holiday goodies? Who doesn’t? But when attending holiday cocktail parties it can be easy to overindulge. We have a few tips to ensure you still get to enjoy some treats, just not too many of them. At parties that are mainly appetisers, make one plate with your favourites and then move away from the food table. If you have a healthy, balanced meal prior to the party you’ll also be less likely to fill up on calorie rich foods. Be careful when snacking on mixed nuts as a few nuts are good for you, but one cup is equivalent to eating seven pieces of chocolate cake. Watch out for holiday cocktails that are loaded with sugar and fat – you don’t want to know how many calories there are in a cup of eggnog – instead try and stick with quality wines or low calorie mixers such as sparkling water mixed with cranberry juice. And if eggnog is your downfall don’t despair, just remember, everything in moderation.
To learn more tips and tricks for staying fit during the holidays or where to find fun, family holiday activities, email Hayley McGowan, BHK, CPT, Pre and Postnatal Fitness Specialist, at babybumpsfitness@gmail.com. Keep an eye out for her pre and postnatal classes springing up in West Van very soon too.
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I’m all for getting out and getting active with teh kids, but I do like eggnog and since it’s only around for a short while, I allow myself to have it:)