Holiday Fitness Survival Guide

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but it can also bring a fair disruption to our fitness routines. Between holiday parties, travel plans, and endless to-do lists, staying active and managing your well-being can feel like an uphill battle. That’s why we’ve created this Holiday Fitness Survival Guide—to help you navigate the season with ease. From managing stress and maintaining your fitness routine to setting realistic goals and carving out time to work out, these tips will keep you feeling your best while still enjoying the magic of the holidays.

The #1 Rule: Don’t Shut Fitness Out

The number one rule for staying fit during the holidays is simple: don’t hit pause on your fitness routine and vow to pick it up again “after New Year’s.” While enjoying some rest days and holiday indulgences is perfectly fine, completely abandoning physical activity can make it harder to bounce back later. Instead, incorporate small, manageable workouts and physical activities into your schedule—whether a quick walk, a yoga session, ice skating with the family, or even dancing to your favorite holiday tunes. 

Workouts During Holiday Travel

Finding time to work out during holiday travel may seem challenging, but it’s easier than you think with some creativity. Many hotels have gyms, so take advantage of these convenient spaces for a quick sweat session. If you’re visiting family, why not make fitness a bonding activity? Invite a family member to join you at their local gym or for a brisk walk around the neighborhood. If your family is visiting Las Vegas, LVAC guest passes are available for Premier and Platinum memberships, and day passes are only $20! Members can also check out LVAC’s online workout library—where you can stream workouts from the comfort of your home or hotel room. 

Overindulging in Food

With the holidays come delicious treats and festive feasts that you can absolutely enjoy—but in moderation. Rather than overindulging, focus on savoring your favorite seasonal foods mindfully. Pay attention to how what you eat makes you feel. Eating too quickly may make you feel sluggish, so slow down and savor every bite. Try balancing treats with nutrient-dense options, like having a protein bar for breakfast. Adding a salad to your meal before the turkey dinner can help prevent overconsumption, as can drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Remember, the goal isn’t to restrict yourself but to enjoy the holidays while feeling your best.

Gained a Few Pounds?

Holiday weight gain is a natural part of the season, and it’s important to remind yourself that it’s okay. Sharing meals, indulging in holiday favorites, and relaxing with loved ones is what makes this time of year so special. Instead of focusing on the scale or feeling guilty, shift your perspective to appreciate the moments that truly matter—good food, joyful company, and meaningful connections. If you notice some extra pounds, avoid shaming yourself or using negative self-talk. Practice speaking to yourself kindly, just as you would to a friend. A little holiday weight gain doesn’t define you. Repeat these affirmations to yourself if you’re feeling down about holiday weight gain:

• “I enjoyed time with my loved ones, and that matters more than numbers on a scale.”
• “I am grateful for the memories I made, not worried about the food I ate.”
• “I trust my ability to care for my body and get back to my fitness routine.”

But the Holidays Are SO Stressful!

Holiday stress often makes it tempting to put workouts on the back burner, as finding time between family obligations and shopping can feel overwhelming. However, instead of aiming for long, intense sessions, try squeezing in shorter, manageable workouts. Even 30 minutes at the gym or a quick bodyweight circuit at home can make a difference. While it may seem like “just one more thing on the list,” exercise is proven to reduce stress, boost your mood, and increase energy levels. By keeping your workouts short and simple, you’ll stay active and feel more grounded and ready to tackle the rest of your holiday to-do list.

This holiday season, focus on staying active without overcomplicating your routine. Don’t stop working out entirely—opt for realistic workout times and get creative with ways to keep active, even when traveling. Be mindful of how much you consume and choose foods that make you feel good, but remember to enjoy the treats and moments that make the holidays special. Above all, speak kindly to yourself and don’t stress over a few extra pounds. With this holiday fitness survival guide, you can stay balanced and mindful all season long!