When you’re stuffed after a delicious Christmas roast with family, the gym is probably the last thing on your mind. While it can be tempting to curl up on the couch with a movie during your holiday downtime, resist the urge to go into hibernation mode. Neglecting your diet and exercise routine can lead to unwanted weight gain and foster seasonal depression. Here’s how to stay motivated this time of year. 

Look for Healthy Holiday Foods

When surveying the spread at festive dinners, reach for vegetables first. Turkey and grilled chicken are a great substitution for red meat. When it comes to drinks, try not to overindulge on alcohol, which is full of empty calories and sugars. Have a glass of water at hand to alternate with sips of alcohol. 

While it’s unrealistic to nix sugar entirely over the holidays, you can make smart choices when satiating your sweet tooth. Look for fruit-based desserts such as sugar-free apple pie and skip the whipped cream and powdered sugar.  

Maintain Your Exercise Motivation

Finding the energy to go for a run can be tough when you’re cozy indoors. Look for fun ways to exercise over the holidays, such as grabbing a friend for a run or a visit to the gym. If you’re visiting family, check if local fitness centers offer guest passes you can use. 

With New Year’s on the horizon, this is also the perfect time to try a new exercise routine. Many gyms offer fun classes, including dance, cycling, spinning, yoga, and even meditation. Ask friends and family to gift you a session with a personal trainer as a holiday present to help keep you motivated. 

If you want to stay healthy this holiday season, trained professionals at Jeff's Quest Health Club in Northern Bergen County, NJ, can help motivate you through the winter months. In addition to top-quality cardio and strength equipment, this gym has a sauna, steam room, and showers. They also offer on-site child care. You can view their schedule of upcoming fitness classes online. If you want to enroll in their membership program, call (201) 462-3030.