The holidays can be filled with tempting treats that can cause even the most disciplined athlete to overdo it. From Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day, the parties, cookie platters, and family meals are virtually nonstop. Staying in shape without missing out on the festivities and once a year baked goods can be a challenge. It is possible to enjoy the celebrations and stay on track with your fitness goals. With some preparation, initiative, and discipline you can make it through the holiday eating season without having to completely start over with your training goals in the New Year. If you’re looking for something besides karate lessons in Raleigh this fall and winter, Gracie has what you’re looking for! Call us today for more information.

Continuing to train during the holidays can be difficult as the amount of free time you have available to you is eaten up by family commitments, holiday shopping, and end of the year work deadlines. Despite these extra demands on your time it is essential to continue your training regimen. Find ways to squeeze in more physical exercise during the day if you find that you have to cut your workout time short. Take the stairs, park farther away from the store, or go for a quick run in the middle of the day. These are all great ways to help you stay physically active and combat those extra calories you’re consuming.

If you are involved in the planning of the meal or making a dish to contribute, choose to make a healthy option. Many holiday recipes can be tweaked to make them healthier. Recipes can be found online that substitute skim milk for whole milk, egg whites instead of whole eggs, and low-fat cream cheese in place of regular cream cheese. These simple substitutions will save on calories without skimping on taste.

Having a plan in place to tackle the holiday food spread is also a great way to ensure that you stick to your diet and your game plan.

Here are some tips for avoiding common holiday food pitfalls. For an alternative to karate lessons in Raleigh, call Gracie Raleigh. Ask about our MMA, self defense, and BJJ classes.

Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich snacks before you head to a celebration. Fruits, vegetables, beans, poultry, and yogurt have plenty of water-soluble fiber that will make you feel full so you don’t overindulge. Before you make your plate, survey the foods available to decide what the healthiest options are. Don’t be afraid to ask about ingredients to see if you want to avoid particular dishes. Skip those that are smothered in gravy or high in sugar or fat.

Alcohol is full of empty calories. Instead of skipping the beer or wine altogether, adopt the two to one method. Drink two glasses of water for every one alcoholic beverage you consume. Doing this can save you between 100 and 400 calories per drink. Saving these calories allows you to stop by the dessert table and have one slice of pie, a single brownie, or two small cookies.

When it’s time to head home, skip the offers of leftovers so that you are forced to revert to the food plan you usually follow. This helps you get back on track with your dietary program and it also allows someone else to have a chance at the leftovers.

Enjoying the holiday season doesn’t have to undo all your hard work. When you plan ahead, seek healthier alternatives, and allow yourself to indulge just a little bit, you’ll find that getting back on track with your training and dietary goals won’t be so difficult.

Karate Lessons in Raleigh Can Be Boring! Try Gracie in 2018!

From all of us at Gracie Raleigh, we wish you a holiday season filled with friends, family, and joy! Be sure to check for updates on our holiday hours when you are in the gym. Haven’t started your martial arts training yet or need a gift for someone who is hard to buy for? Skip the Raleigh karate lessons! Come by and talk with our staff. We’d love to show you how martial arts can make a difference in your life or the life of a loved one.