Science Says You Can Have Your Pie & Lift Too
'Tis the season when fitness influencers start preaching about "earning your dinner" and "burning off that pie." Let's skip the guilt trip and look at what science actually says about staying healthy during the holidays.
The Reality Check You Actually Wanted
Research shows most people only gain about 1-2 pounds during the holiday season. Not the 10 pounds of pure butter your favorite fitness guru warned you about. The real challenge? Those couple of pounds tend to stick around longer than your uncle's awkward jokes.
Your Holiday Survival Guide (Based on Science)
Maintaining (not increasing) your exercise routine during the holidays is likely going to be your best bet. That means:
Stick to your usual workout schedule when possible
Don't try to "earn" or "burn off" meals (that's not how bodies work)
Getting right back to your routine after a holiday is more important than crushing yourself before
The Sleep Factor
Holiday stress and schedule changes can wreck your sleep, which studies (2) link to both reduced workout performance and increased snacking. Some research-backed tips:
Keep your wake-up time consistent (even after late nights)
Try a post-shopping Vibragenix session to reset your nervous system
Maybe don't have that fourth cup of holiday coffee after 2 PM
Short Workouts Still Count
Last week we talked about how even shorter workouts or weekend workouts can be beneficial for your health. Here are some other quick ways to get big benefits.
Quick 30-minute personal training sessions (because efficiency is key)
Drop into a yoga class to counteract holiday tension
20-minutes of cardio on a spin bike, stair climber, or your favorite machine
High-intensity intervals can be effective in as little as 10 minutes (ask our trainers for their favorite time-crunch workouts)
Your Holiday Stress-Busting Arsenal
Because let's be honest, holiday tension is more exhausting than your workouts:
Our sauna and steam room are your escape pods from family dynamics
Red light therapy sessions might help with that winter mood (and your skin's reaction to sugar cookies)
The massage beds are here for you after Black Friday shopping warfare
PEMF mats because your body deserves better than the air mattress at your in-laws'
Remember: The goal during the holidays isn't to set PRs or transform your body. It's to maintain your healthy habits while actually enjoying time with people you love (or at least have to tolerate until January). And hey, if you need a legitimate excuse to escape the family chaos, you can treat our gym like your own spa getaway (it basically is).
Saving a seat at the table for you,
Your West Coast Fitness Family
PS: Our Thanksgiving hours are from 5am-noon! Get your endorphins and peace of mind to make this your best Thanksgiving yet.
