So it’s that time of year when we all make resolutions to make ourselves and this new year better than the one before. The holidays are fun but can leave us with an expanded waistline so here are 10 healthy tips to help drop the holiday weight fast. If you only follow a minimum of 4 out of 10 I guarantee you will see an improvement, follow all 10 and the skies the limit.

 

1. Make fitness a priority. I like to remind people that food is only one part of the equation that determines whether you'll lose or gain weight. Fitness is just as important. Post New Year If anything, you should be trying to work out more than before to curb weight gain and extra eating. One new years resolution we should all keep is lets work out more this year than last to not only lose any extra pounds but to remain fit and healthy.

 

2. Find a workout you enjoy. There are so many ways of attacking your body and losing the holiday weight there really is no need to just sit on an exercise bike or hit the treadmill. How about the best fat burner known to man HIIT or perhaps you like pushing weights, Zumba, Crossfit or something else. The important thing is to MAKE IT FUN so that you look forward to each workout as opposed to loathing it. Maybe even hire a trainer to learn good form and maximize your efforts even if only for a short time to devise a program for you and make sure you’re on the right track.

 

3. Reduce your calorie intake. On the first day of 2014(or maybe the second), take all the sweet and fattening treats left in your house and simply throw them out. If you normally eat fatty and sugary foods, reduce your sugar intake quickly by drinking water and tea instead of soda and fruit juice. Immediately after the holidays, replace candy, pastries, processed foods and desserts with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and salads.

 

4. Keep track of everything you eat. Even if only for the first week of the New Year to set a base line. It’s proven that people who keep food journals are 3 x times likelier to stick to a healthy eating regime. Write down your food intake in a notebook or use your smart device to take pictures or keep video and audio journals of what you eat. Being aware of what you eat can serve as an effective reminder of which foods to avoid as you work on dropping holiday pounds.

 

5. Stay hydrated. It’s easy to mistake thirst for hunger, so try drinking a glass of water instead of eating when you feel hungry. Water is essential for the body to run efficiently, makes you feel better and keeps you sharp and alert. Try to avoid caffeine by substituting coffee and black tea for herbal alternatives. The calories come from milk and sugar when added to both teas and coffees. If caffeine is a must, switch latte’s and cappuccinos for espresso or filter coffee.

 

6. Schedule your workout like an appointment. You wouldn't miss work, a doctor's appointment or an important meeting to bake cookies or do some holiday shopping, would you? Add your workouts to your calendar so that other obligations don't get in the way of your gym time. Tell your friend that you'd love to meet him to watch the game but that you won't arrive until after you have done one more rep or extra lap or your trainer lets you out!

7. Maintain your active lifestyle. Remember that "running" errands aren’t the same as running or jumping or climbing. The more activity you can add to your days (in addition to planned fitness) the better off you'll be. Like maybe playing some footie with the kids or walking the family pet. Or maybe try a new hobby like sledding or snowboarding (Big Bear is only up the road), or surfing or kayaking. We live in LA so you can do it all so why not.

8. Keep an emergency snack on hand. Stashing some healthy portable food in your car, purse, and desk drawer can help satisfy your cravings and prevent you from going overboard on all the wrong foods. This is a good idea when you're hungry at work and cookies sound tempting, or when you're shopping late at the mall and hear the food court calling.
 
9. Watch your portions. Especially when eating out. There's nothing wrong with enjoying some decent restaurant food but just make smart choices and keep your portions in check. If presented with a huge meal take home half in a doggie bag, one less meal to prepare tomorrow.

 

10. Wake up with exercise. People who exercise first thing in the morning are more likely to exercise regularly than those who exercise later in the day. Even if your not a morning person and exerciser now, a.m. workouts might be the best way to squeeze fitness into your days before other things come up. Plus, you’ll kick-start and turbo charge your system for the rest of the day.

I could probably write another 10 but I gotta go work out, drink plenty of water, eat healthy and keep track of it all ha ha. So I’m gonna close by wishing you all a very happy and healthy new year filled with love and laughter. Until next time train hard, train smart, eat clean and get lean. For information on personal training feel free to contact me on Tel 310 279 8117, email Body Possible or visit Body Possible