4 Tips for Getting in More Steps Over the Holidays
Hey Angels and Alphas,
With the holidays fast approaching, many of us are looking for ways to maintain our health and fitness goals. Walking is an excellent way to stay active and get in some much-needed exercise.
Unfortunately, it can be hard to fit in extra steps over the holidays, when we’re busy with shopping, decorating, cooking, and other holiday activities.
That’s why it’s important to be creative and look for opportunities to squeeze in some extra steps whenever possible. Here are 4 tips that can help you get in more steps during the holiday season.
1) Park Farther Away
The holidays can be a busy time, and often it’s hard to fit in all the errands and activities you need to do. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on getting in more steps! One easy way to get in more steps is to park farther away when you’re out and about running errands or visiting family and friends.
When you arrive at a destination, look for a parking spot that will require you to walk a bit farther than usual. This can add a few extra steps to your day and help you reach your goal. Plus, it’s a great way to get a little fresh air and movement in during the hustle and bustle of the holidays!
2) Go For a Walk After Meals
One of the best ways to get in more steps over the holidays is to go for a walk after meals. This doesn’t have to be an intense exercise session – just a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood or a quick lap around the block.
The key here is to get moving and create a habit of walking after meals. This not only helps you burn off some of those extra calories from holiday feasts, but it also gives you the opportunity to spend quality time with your family.
If the weather permits, take advantage of the outdoors and explore your neighborhood. Even if you live in a city, there are plenty of parks and trails nearby that you can check out. Or, if you prefer, look up interesting historical sites or tourist attractions that are within walking distance.
If it’s too cold or wet to go outside, don’t let that stop you from getting in some post-meal movement. Consider heading to the mall or local indoor shopping center to get in some extra steps. You can even make it a game by playing “I Spy” or setting a goal of seeing how quickly you can complete a lap around the mall.
No matter how you decide to get in your post-meal steps, make sure it’s something that you enjoy doing. This will help you stay motivated and increase your chances of creating a habit that lasts well beyond the holidays.
3) Take the Stairs
One of the easiest ways to fit in more steps over the holidays is to take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. This can help you quickly rack up your step count without having to put in too much effort. Plus, taking the stairs is a great way to get your heart rate up and get in a mini-workout.
It’s also a good idea to take the stairs when you’re out shopping for gifts. Many stores have multiple floors, so instead of taking the escalator, go for a few flights of stairs. It may not seem like much, but it can add up over time and help you reach your daily step goal.
It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing situation either. If you’re tired or out of breath, you can always take the elevator up and then use the stairs to come back down.
At home, you can also try doing stair workouts as a way to stay active and fit in more steps throughout the day. You can do things like stair sprints, skipping steps, or just taking a few extra trips up and down the stairs during your break times.
No matter how you choose to incorporate stairs into your routine, taking them over the holidays can be a great way to fit in more steps without having to carve out time for a full workout.
4) Schedule Walking Dates With Family and Friends
When it comes to squeezing in more steps over the holidays, don’t forget to take advantage of all the family and friends you’ll be seeing. Many people find that making walking dates with their loved ones is a great way to get in some extra steps.
Whether you meet for a morning walk before your holiday meal or take a post-dinner stroll around the neighborhood, these are fantastic opportunities to get your heart rate up and catch up with those you care about.
If you have the chance to hit the trails with a few family members, even better! Not only will you get in some additional steps, but you’ll get to enjoy the scenery and connect with your loved ones. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, bring along any necessary supplies, and stay safe on your walks.
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