The holidays are here, which means cozy sweaters, hot cocoa, and approximately a million things to do. For me, December always feels like a whirlwind, and sometimes it is truly impossible to fit in a formal workout. And if you read Wednesday’s post, you know I’m feeling guilty about that. And working on not feeling guilty about it. Because staying active during the holidays doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or doing a 45-minute cardio session.
If you’re like me and need to make your holiday movement to feel festive and fun, I’ve got you covered. (Plus, even Harvard agrees with me that you’ve got to keep moving!) Here are five creative ways to stay active during the holidays that you’re probably doing anyway—or can start doing now.
1. Decorating for the Holidays
Holiday decorating is a sneaky way to stay active during the holidays. Pulling the box of ornaments out of storage? Strength training. Carefully balancing on a stool to hang garlands? Core work. Untangling miles of string lights? Maybe not a physical workout, but definitely a mental endurance test. Plus, once you’re done, your space looks festive and magical. Worth it.
2. Holiday Baking
Holiday baking isn’t just about the cookies (although let’s be honest, it sort of is). But if you’re feeling guilty, consider this: It’s about the movement—rolling dough, whipping batter, and crisscrossing the kitchen to grab ingredients. Add some upbeat holiday music, and suddenly you’re in your own baking montage. Staying active during the holidays can be as simple as dancing while you whisk frosting. Your arms might even get a little sore from all that whisking!
3. Playing in the Snow
Remember how much fun snow days were when you were a kid? Who says adults can’t join in? Go outside, build a snowman, or organize a friendly snowball fight. It’s like recess, but with mittens and hot chocolate waiting for you afterward. Running through the snow burns calories *and* boosts your mood. And happy people just don’t kill their husbands.
4. Volunteer Work
Volunteering during the holidays is a great way to stay active while giving back. Packing food hampers, sorting donations, or delivering meals to neighbors all require movement, and you’re helping your community while you’re at it. It’s a win-win that makes your heart feel as full as your gift bags.
5. Nature Walks
Sometimes, the simplest activities are the best. Taking a walk to admire holiday lights or enjoy a snowy trail gives you fresh air, gentle movement, and a little time to decompress. Throw on your coziest scarf and grab a warm drink to make it even better. Plus it’s warm in Calgary right now! Walking is a classic way to stay active during the holidays, and it’s easy to fit into your schedule.
Staying Active (and Festive!) This Season
The holidays are busy, but they don’t have to be sedentary. With a little creativity, you can stay active during the holidays in ways that feel festive and fun. Whether you’re dancing in the kitchen, climbing a ladder to hang mistletoe, or strolling through a winter wonderland, every little bit adds up.
I’d love to hear how you’re staying active this season! And why is it just sprinting across the room to your iphone so you can skip “Simply Having a Wonderful Christmas Time”? (The worst song.) Let me know in the comments below—and feel free to share your own favorite ways to stay active during the holidays.