features

Sports to help you stay in shape over the holidays

December 26, 2015

The holidays offer plenty food temptations for those trying to stay fit. – AFP Relaxnews pic, December 26, 2015.With so much tempting food and drink on offer and plenty of parties to go to, the holiday season is probably the hardest time of year to stay motivated with your workout regime, meaning chocolates and cookies can soon creep up on us by the time New Year comes around.

To help you stay focused we've rounded up some of our favorite ways to incorporate some exercise into your holidays, and help combat those extra Christmas calories.

Running

A winter run is one of the most effective cardiovascular workouts for burning off extra Christmas calories. – AFP Relaxnews pic, December 26, 2015.You may need to wrap up warm to avoid muscle injury, but prepare properly and a brisk winter morning run can be one of the most enjoyable ways to keep fit over the holidays.

Start off your Christmas Day with a jog to help control some of the damage that a festive dinner brings, or clear your head with a New Year's Day run and sweat out some toxins from the night before.

And if you're heading to friends and family for the holidays there is no need to worry about taking any bulky exercise equipment, just pack your trainers and you're ready to go!

Its also a great way to meet up with friends over the holidays to enjoy some exercise together in the outdoors, rather than just another mulled wine.

Walking

A brisk winter walk is a great way to get off the sofa and start getting your heart pumping and your body moving this Christmas. A good way to get some fresh air and clear your mind, it's even better with friends. – AFP Relaxnews pic, December 26, 2015.If running feels a bit too energetic, try a winter walk instead, and even better take someone along.

Walk the dog, or catch up with friends and family; walking can be enjoyed by everyone of every age, and all you need is warm comfortable clothing.

Try to walk briskly not only to keep warm but also to get the heart rate going for extra health benefits and extra calorie burning.

Yoga

Yoga is the perfect way to clear the mind, focus, and relax during the stressful holiday season. – AFP Relaxnews pic, December 26, 2015.The holiday season can be stressful and challenging for some, so a yoga session can help to not only work the body but also relax the mind during the holidays.

And with so many different types available, the good thing about yoga is you can make it as relaxing or as strenuous as you like.

Focus on breathing and meditation with Kundalini yoga to clear your mind and reduce stress, or work up a sweat with Bikram or Ashtanga styles, to really get the blood pumping and enjoy a full body workout to increase strength and flexibility.

Head to a class or, since it might be cold outside, just unroll your mat and work out from home.

Ice skating

Have fun with friends and go ice skating, a great workout for the lower body, as well as a great way to lift your mood and get in the holiday spirit. – AFP Relaxnews pic, December 26, 2015.Although the lack of an ice rink may mean it's not always a practical way to stay fit throughout the year, many outdoor ice rinks pop up over the holidays making it a fun way to try something new, and get some exercise during the festive season.

Not only will ice skating work the muscles in your legs and bum, but as a great activity to do with friends, it will also help boost your mood and will definitely get you in the holiday spirit! – AFP Relaxnews, December 26, 2015.