How to Stay Active During the Holidays

How to Stay Active During the Holidays

by Coach Thompson

The holiday season is a time for celebration, relaxation, and spending time with loved ones. But it can also be a time when staying active takes a back seat to cozy movie nights, festive feasts, and packed schedules. For teenagers, it’s especially easy to fall into a routine of lounging around and scrolling on social media during the break. However, staying active during the holidays doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be fun, social, and rewarding. This guide will help you keep moving while enjoying all the season has to offer.

Make Fitness Fun and Social

The holidays are perfect for combining fitness with fun activities. Why not make movement a social event? Holiday-themed activities, such as joining a local Turkey Trot, holiday light fun runs, or ice skating, can make exercise feel like a celebration. These activities allow you to spend quality time with friends and family while keeping active.

Another great way to include loved ones is by planning group activities like a snowball fight, a family dance-off, or even a casual game of basketball in the driveway. Not only will these events get your heart pumping, but they’ll also create cherished memories. If going outside isn’t an option, consider turning to technology for inspiration. Fitness apps and YouTube channels offer a wide range of quick, fun workouts. TikTok is also packed with short exercise challenges you can try and share with your friends.

Stay Active Indoors

Cold weather doesn’t have to stop you from staying active. Creating a simple home workout routine can keep you moving without stepping outside. Bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, and planks are great for building strength and can be done with minimal space. If you’re new to working out, start with a short 10-minute session and gradually increase the time. Dancing is another fantastic indoor activity. Turn up your favorite playlist and let loose—dancing burns calories, boosts your mood, and doesn’t feel like exercise at all. Alternatively, active video games like Just Dance or Wii Sports can help you stay on your feet while having a blast.

Embrace the Outdoors

If you enjoy being outside, the holidays offer plenty of opportunities to get moving. Bundle up in warm clothing and take a stroll around your neighborhood to admire the holiday lights and decorations. It’s a simple way to add steps to your day while soaking up the festive atmosphere. For those lucky enough to live in snowy areas, consider trying winter sports like skiing, sledding, or snowboarding. Even building a snowman or making snow angels counts as physical activity. If snow isn’t an option, hiking or bike riding are great ways to enjoy the crisp winter air.

Another meaningful way to stay active outdoors is by volunteering. Activities like delivering holiday gifts to those in need, helping with outdoor events, or participating in community clean-ups can keep you moving while making a difference.

Set Small Goals and Reward Yourself

Consistency is key to staying active during the holidays, but you don’t have to aim for perfection. Setting small, achievable goals—like 20 minutes of movement a day—can make staying active feel manageable. You can even incorporate exercise into your daily routine, such as stretching while watching your favorite holiday movies or helping with household chores.

Rewards can also keep you motivated. Treat yourself to a new workout playlist, a fun piece of fitness gear, or extra time doing something you love. Small incentives can make a big difference in helping you stay on track.

Conclusion

Staying active during the holidays doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or relaxation. By finding activities you enjoy, involving loved ones, and setting realistic goals, you can keep moving while making the most of the season. Whether it’s a snowball fight, a dance-off, or a family walk, every little bit of movement counts. So, start today—find one activity you love and make it a part of your holiday tradition. You’ll feel happier, healthier, and ready to take on the new year!

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov

• American Heart Association. (2021). Staying Active During Winter Holidays. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org

• Harvard Health Publishing. (2022). Exercise and Holiday Stress Management. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu