Well today we have a bonus post! When I saw that Shelly from The Queen in Between was co-hosting a link up about staying fit during the holidays I knew I had to participate. As you well know we are heading into a very fun and hectic time of the year and for most of us that means picking up a couple of unwanted pounds. Every year I try my hardest to stick with a healthy eating plan and my regular workout routine while still allowing myself a few indulgences. Over the years it has become increasingly difficult, and not because I am getting older but because my lifestyle has changed so much. Back in the day when my kids were younger we ate out very little we always seemed to be busy. Now I find myself eating out way more and becoming much more sedentary. That all adds up to pounds that slowly creep up on me!
Here are a few of the things I do to stay in shape and maintain my sanity during the holidays. My hope is that maybe you’ll find a tip or two that you might like. I should also mention that I was a Weight Watchers leader for 15 years and many of the principles I learned from the program are still very much a part of who I am today. And for anyone who has thought about losing weight I will tell you that Weight Watchers is a great program for real life living! Check it out!
Usually around this time of year one of the first saboteurs I encounter is flavored coffee creamer. While it may not seem like much, adding a few extra calories to the two cups of coffee I drink every morning can really add up! This year I have found a great alternative. GNC sells delicious lean protein shakes and they come in great seasonal flavors like gingerbread and pumpkin spice. When added to my coffee they add a great flavor and I get extra protein – win, win!
Okay, the protein shakes as coffee creamer were one thing but the next may be a little less palatable for some of you! For years now I wake up weekday mornings to head to the gym by 5am. Yup, that’s right, I get up at 4:15 am so I can dress and do my daily bible study or devotional before I head out. Yes, it’s early but it’s the only way I can be sure I get my workouts in. I started going by myself but for the last few years I have been joined by my sidekick Lorie. Having an accountability partner makes all the difference! Every morning she is the first person I talk to and together we push each other. Most days we do strength training with weights and then do cardio. We work out for an hour and then head home happy knowing no matter what else comes our way we have worked out! I am including pictures and you’ll see there is NOTHING pretty about early morning work outs, no make up, gross hair but we get it done!
It’s dark when we get there and the place looks deserted but don’t be fooled, the place is hoppin’!
By the time we’re done at 6:00 am I am one sweaty mess and head home to shower. Of course exercise is only part of the equation, what you eat really makes all the difference and I try to make good choices.
So there you have it, early morning work outs and protein shakes that double as coffee creamer are two of the ways I stay in shape during the holidays. I am always looking for new and interesting ways to keep moving and eat better so please share your tips and tricks!
I hope you enjoyed today’s post!
Fashionably yours,
Kellyann
Linking up for Spiel the Beans
