So a while back I posted an article on the Top 5 Reasons I Stay Motivated to Work Out, I’ve stolen a few and adapted them to the holidays (as well as added some new ones), since I know this is such a hard time of the year to keep workouts a priority. So here are my Top 5 Reasons I Stay Motivated to Work Out During the Holidays:
- To keep my other systems intact: When I’m traveling (which I always am during the holidays since my family and in-laws are all in Chicago), my body already feels a little disrupted since it’s no longer going about it’s normal routine. At least when I’m working out, the rest of my body completes their processes better. I think better, I sleep better, I breath better, my energy is better, and there are a couple “you-know-whats” that are also better.
- To eat what I want: Ummm . . . need I really say more here? The holidays is full of ridiculous temptations. Those of you who know me, know I can eat quite a bit for a person my size. I’m not an unhealthy eater, but I do love going out to eat and I eat often. Working out makes it easier to not worry about the quantity of food I eat or feel guilty about treating myself often.
- To look good: Whether it’s dressing up for holiday parties or visiting friends who I haven’t seen in a while, I want to make sure I look and feel good! Call it vain, call it whatever you want, but there isn’t a person out there that can’t admit that this is secretly part of why they work out. I just feel better when my clothes fit well and when I feel good in my body.
- To bond with family and friends: I find that during the holidays, I actually work out with family and friends more often. Because so many other activities happen in a group during the holidays, I find that going to the gym often ends up becoming a group activity as well. My sister and I also love trying new classes together and then treating ourselves after to a fun brunch.
- To keep me sane: Just being honest here. The holidays can be overwhelming enough with traveling, cooking, shopping, eating, drinking, etc. On the flip side to number four, on the days where working out isn’t a “bonding experience,” I use my workout as a chance to be alone, breath, gather my thoughts, and maybe work off a little steam. If there is one thing that makes me feel better, it’s a good sweaty workout.
- Sara Haley