Consistency Is The Key

It's about that time of the year.  The holidays are fast approaching and the excuses are starting to fly.  Excuses for what, you ask?  Excuses for not exercising and eating properly.  I say "excuses" because a lot of times that's what they are.  Americans are famous for living big, eating "super-sized" portions and, more often than not, making excuses for not having our health higher on the priority totem pole.  How often have you said "I don't have time to go to the gym today", but yet you spent more than an hour in front of the computer or television?  How often have you gone out to eat, consumed large portions of fried or high-fatty foods, then felt miserable the next day?  I've said it before and I'll say it again...it's time to make time for you and your health.  It's time you make your health the number one priority because if your health fails, how will you continue to do all the things you do now?

So instead of trying to force yourself into lofty fitness and nutrition goals during this holiday season, just shoot for consistency this year.  Consistency with getting away from the computer/television and participate in some sort of physical activity.  Even if it's just means getting out of the house and going for a walk in your neighborhood, your heart and lungs will thank you.  Consistency with your nutrition plan by not gorging on every dish at holiday parties but instead sampling a few items and keeping your plate balanced with vegetables and protein.  Consistency with alcohol consumption at holiday gatherings by alternating water after each alcoholic drink and choosing low-calorie drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).

Take the time to plan out your holiday events.  If you know there will be a big spread of food and you don't think you'll have the will-power to say "no", eat a healthy meal before you leave the house then you can sample a few items instead of overloading your plate at the party.  Be smart this year and try to maintain your weight instead of gaining weight.  Did you know the average American gains 7-12 pounds during Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays?  Don't become part of that statistic this year.  Enjoy time with family and friends, be smart with your food choices, and most of all, try to fit in a little exercise each day.