Exercise - The Gift That Keeps On Giving

IS the run up to Christmas leaving you feeling exhausted?  Has 2012 been a long year? Are you feeling drained and looking forward to putting your feet up over the Christmas period? 

Well as a personal trainer specialising in helping women over the age of 40 achieve their fatloss and fitness goals, my advice to you is DON’T.

Festive, frosty days are a great opportunity to wrap yourself up warm and get out and about in our beautiful countryside.

I was reading on the BBC* this morning that the BMJ has published research showing athletes live 2.8 years longer on average.  I know, I know, you’re not an athlete (and neither am I) so it’s important to note the research went on to say that the average Jo, over 40s women, can also get the same advantages as athletes by simply taking part in more exercise (approx. 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week). 

Now, Christmas might not seem like the ideal time to start to get fitter. Yes, the family are around and the normal routine will have to go out of the window. But, why not take the opportunity to create a fun, fitness based Christmas regime by using my suggestions for easy ways to get more active over the festive period and give yourself the best Christmas gift ever - extra years of life:-

Go for a walk

Festive, frosty days are a great opportunity to wrap yourself up warm and get out and about in our beautiful countryside. The Ramblers Association has arranged a ‘Festival of Winter Walks’ so why not dust off your walking boots and check out the Greater Manchester ones here.

Got kids, grandkids, nephews and nieces, friends with kids? 

Teach them how to ride that shiny new Christmas bike or scooter by walking and/or running alongside them. Get down to the park to have a kick about with their new football. Skip, hula hoop or hopscotch, it doesn’t matter what it is, just make sure you tap in to their their boundless energy and enthusiasm for life to spur you into activity too.    

Strut your stuff on the dance floor

Well it is the party season after all.  And if you’ve not got a party to go to why not party in your PJs?  Put on some Christmas tunes and dance around the living room.

Try some festive sports

Outdoor ice skating rinks are all around, so get your skates and go.  Fancy skiing, snowboarding or other winter sports?  Why not use the Christmas break as an opportunity to give them a go.

Already a regular exerciser/gym goer?

Plan your Christmas workout schedule now.  Don’t let the fact that your routine is disrupted become a reason to not exercise.   Write it on the calendar or in your diary and make it happen.

Remember, exercise doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be fun.  So get out there this Christmas and get yourself and your family fitter, healthier and happier.

*You can read the full BBC article here.