Guest Personal Trainer Article – Holiday Blues
Hey San Antonio,
As I mentioned, I’ve invited some other top notch personal trainers to contribute to my blog. Here is an article from a member of my staff at Personal Fitness Revolution, Chaunte Shepherd.
Holiday Blues
What is it about the Holiday season that keeps people out of the gym?
Consider this, according to a study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, current statistics show that Americans gain an average of 1-2 pounds during the 6 weeks between Thanksgiving – Christmas – New Years.
What’s wrong with a few pounds right? The study also shows that those lbs that you gain, you keep (continual pounds) and add to your total weight each subsequent year.
Some may have difficulty comprehending these statistics and how it translates into adding inches to a waistline (or wherever else you don’t want it).
How can we give up on our health for a season, or do we always have an excuse?
I am trying to wrap my mind around the excuses I hear each year (particularly during the Holiday Season).
Here are some of the most common excuses:
I don’t have time!
- #1 excuse and guess what….I don’t buy it! So you have shopping to do – get off your butt & the internet, put on your walking shoes & get to speed walking through the mall. Oh, you have family in town…..get away from the T.V. & plan activities outside…go see lights, ice skating, or stay inside & play games like charades. (Ultimately bringing the family closer together) and lastly wake up earlier and get in a 30 min jog, or go lift some weights. You might be deprived of some sleep, but you will feel more energized!
I am tempted by all the Holiday food & treats!
- I don’t expect you to go without yummy treats; however I do expect you to portion your treats! Who wants to look like Santa…no offense?! There is Nothing wrong with portion control and if you stick to your workout program you will keep your body in check. You won’t gain, you won’t lose, but at least you’ll be mentally and physically prepared for January!
You only live once
- Yes you do, and I’d rather live healthy and take care of the temple God has blessed me with! Remember, Jesus is the Reason for the Season and if you truly want to live for Him, you will desire a healthy body to fulfill the purpose He has for you!
Lastly I have clients that tell me they want to stop their workout program til January due to the fact they know they won’t see results. This is the worst mistake you can make. Muscle memory!! Do not be sedate and eat for 6 weeks, you are just making it harder on your body!
Plus I don’t know about you, but Holiday Parties require a dress code…..how do you look and feel in your Holiday attire?
Chaunte Shepherd
Certified Personal Trainer
Personal Fitness Revolution – San Antonio
210.493-0348
