Getting Movement in During the Holidays

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and yes, indulgence.

With packed schedules, travel, and festive gatherings, it’s easy to let your fitness routine take a back seat. But staying active doesn’t have to mean skipping out on the holiday fun.

Here are some practical and fun ways to get movement in during this busy season.

1. Prioritize Short Workouts

You don’t need an hour at the gym to stay active. Quick, effective workouts can fit into even the busiest day. Try a 15- to 20-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session or bodyweight circuit. These can be done at home or on the road with no equipment needed. Remember, something is always better than nothing!

2. Make It a Family Affair

Turn holiday traditions into opportunities to move. Take a family walk after meals to enjoy the decorations or organize a game of touch football or freeze tag with the kids. Not only will you get your steps in, but you’ll also create lasting memories.

3. Get Creative with Travel Workouts

Traveling doesn’t have to derail your routine. Pack resistance bands or a jump rope for versatile, portable fitness tools. Most hotel rooms have enough space for a quick bodyweight session—think squats, push-ups, planks, and lunges. Bonus: Many hotels now offer fitness centers or even on-demand workout videos!

4. Plan Active Holiday Traditions

Incorporate movement into your holiday celebrations. Ice skating, sledding, or even building a snowman are festive ways to burn calories without feeling like exercise. If the weather isn’t cooperating, indoor options like bowling or a dance party work just as well.

5. Use the Buddy System

Accountability can make all the difference. Partner up with a friend or family member to keep each other motivated. Sign up for a holiday-themed workout class or commit to checking in daily about your activity goals.

6. Embrace the "Every Bit Counts" Mentality

Park farther from the store, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or set a timer to remind yourself to stand up and stretch every hour. These small actions add up over time and help keep your energy levels high.

7. Join Our Holiday Challenges

At Iron Individual, we’re keeping the movement going with our "12 Days of Christmas" workout and at-home holiday programming. Check the app for workouts you can do on your schedule, and don’t forget to log your efforts for extra accountability.

8. Set Realistic Goals

The holidays aren’t the time for perfection. Focus on maintaining your fitness rather than making big gains. If you aim to move your body for just 20-30 minutes most days, you’ll head into the new year feeling great.

Enjoy the Season Without Guilt

Staying active over the holidays is about balance, not deprivation. By incorporating movement into your festivities, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—good health and great memories. Remember, staying active is a gift you give to yourself.

What are your favorite ways to stay active during the holidays?

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Share them in the comments or on our social media pages. Let’s inspire each other to move through the season with joy and energy!

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