KEEPING FIT THIS CHRISTMAS

Fitness through winter can be tough for many of us, especially with uncertainty of being able to go to the gym regularly. There’s often a theme of indulgence throughout December and it can be hard to focus on any fitness goals that we may have set for ourselves previously.

The main focus of Christmas is to have fun with our loved ones and do what makes us happy. That being said, if you’re looking for some fun and festive inspiration to keep moving, then we’ve got you covered!

YOGA:

Yoga is a form of exercise that can suit almost anybody. It is laid back in nature and can be tailored for absolute beginners as well as intermediate and advanced. Many people who start yoga find that it’s a really positive experience in their day. It is a form of exercise that can be targeted in many different ways. It is often used for core strength, muscle toning, stretching and also a form of meditation.

Yoga is appropriate for almost all age groups depending on mobility and doesn’t take up much space in your home. Lots of people opt for yoga in the winter as it doesn’t require facing the cold or having to travel far.

Tutorials are available free online, so it is particularly accessible for many.

WINTER WALKING:

Walking has always been an extremely effective form of exercise as there is so much diversity in how intense it can be. Even the most relaxed of strolls is so good for our bodies, especially in winter! Getting outside at this time of year is so beneficial as we get some much needed exposure to lots of fresh air and sunlight.

More calories are burned when exercising out in the cold and can potentially lower the risk of illnesses such as heart disease and osteoporosis.

Walks are extremely accessible and can be with friends, family, with pets or alone. It can also be made more fun, should you be walking with children, if you make a game out of it and go on a hunt for some festive pieces of nature such as pine cones and fruits to decorate your home with!

DANCING:

The ultimate Christmas pick-me-up!

Even if you hate the idea of getting up and dancing to Christmas music, you have to admit that the moments where you do always make for some great memories!

Any form of aerobic exercising is highly rewarding both physically and mentally. When done regularly it is great for strengthening muscle and bones, improving posture, helping with coordination, flexibility, anxiety and helps to build social bonds!

There are many dance tutorials online that are both free and accessible to many – often with popular and catchy music that’s going to make you want to move.

Dancing can also help to improve our relationships with ourselves and increases the release of endorphins to make you feel good! This is especially important for us this year!