INTRODUCTION
The holidays are a time for joy, festivity and bonding with loved ones. However, these celebrations often lead to less active lifestyles. In this article, we’ll share unique ways to stay active with your family and friends, enriching your holiday season while boosting your health and wellbeing.
THE SLIPPERY SLOPE OF HOLIDAY INACTIVITY
Being inactive during the holidays is common. Various factors contribute to this, from colder weather to an influx of comfort foods and festive activities that involve sitting rather than moving. The consequences? Weight gain, lowered energy levels and reduced health and wellbeing. To stay active with family and friends on holiday to improve your health.
INVOLVE EVERYONE IN THE PLANNING
Planning holiday activities that cater to everyone’s interests encourages full participation. Whether setting up a makeshift backyard obstacle course or engaging in a seasonal scavenger hunt, ensure the chosen activities are fun for all age groups.
OPT FOR ACTIVE SOCIAL GATHERINGS
This holiday season, let’s shift the paradigm. Move away from buffet dinners and sedentary hangouts, opting for activity-based gatherings. Think hiking, bowling or a simple day at the park flying kites. These activities allow you to stay active with family and friends on holiday.
WALK AND TALK – THE SIMPLEST FORM OF ACTIVITY
Walking is often underrated. Turn your catch-up sessions into walk-and-talk meetings. Whether discussing the latest family news or debating which movie to watch next, doing it while walking adds a healthy twist to routine interactions.
ENGAGE IN SEASONAL ACTIVITIES
Leverage the season’s unique offerings. Snow provides an opportunity for snowball fights, snowman building, and even unprofessional snowboarding. For warmer climates, consider beach volleyball or a Christmas morning swim.
DIY FITNESS CHALLENGES
Nothing encourages camaraderie like a challenge. Create a fitness challenge for family and friends to meet specific goals. Use a tracker to monitor daily steps or hold plank-offs to see who can have a plank the longest. The key? Make it fun!
ACTIVE VOLUNTEERING – DOING GOOD WHILE STAYING ACTIVE
Service to the community is a holiday tradition for many. Turn it into a double win by opting for volunteer opportunities that require physical activity, like organising a charity walk or building a community garden.
DANCE YOUR WAY THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS
Dancing offers a full-body workout and sets a festive tone. The health and wellbeing benefits are a great bonus, whether formal dancing at a holiday event or a spontaneous dance-off during a casual gathering.
INDOOR OPTIONS FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER
Don’t let bad weather be your excuse. Countless indoor activities, from home workout sessions to indoor swimming and trampoline parks and staying active with family and friends, can keep the family engaged.
THE BENEFITS EXTEND BEYOND THE PHYSICAL
The psychological benefits of group activities are manifold. They can improve mood, deepen connections and reduce stress levels, making the holidays a more enriching experience for everyone involved.
CONCLUSION
With some planning and participation, the holiday season can be as active as it is festive. By incorporating these strategies, you’ll invest in your physical health and wellbeing, quality time and lasting memories with your loved ones.