Don't Let the Holidays 'Weigh' You Down

Thanksgiving might be over but the holiday season is just beginning, and you know what that means: Eating Like There's No Tomorrow!

The period between Thanksgiving and New Year's — appropriately named "the binge season" — is notorious for weight gain. Even if you put on only a pound or two each holiday season, you may, according to the National Institutes of Health, carry this extra weight for years to come.

There is some truth to the saying "a moment on the lips equals a lifetime on the hips." That's why it is so important to pay attention to what we eat and how we burn the extra calories during this time of the year. It's certainly not the time to become sedentary.

You might think that eating sensibly during the season that is so focused on food and drink is an impossible task. And fitting exercise into your hectic schedule can be just as daunting.

Not so. It all comes down to good planning, a dash of motivation and a pinch of self-control. It may not be easy when you are surrounded by all of the delicious food, but you will be rewarded on January 1st when you look in the mirror and realize you haven't gained a single pound!

Here are my tips for holiday weight management:

Watch what you eat: If you regularly follow a calorie-restricted diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole grains, a little splurge once in a while won't hurt you. I do suggest that you pay attention to portion control. Limit those times of reaching for second helpings. And you will want to try and avoid the most caloric and fat-laden food/drink on the table.

Make time for fitness: No matter how busy or tired you are, don't even think of skipping exercise. Why is it so important? Physical activity will help you burn off extra calories when you do indulge. Even if you don't consume food in excess, exercise will help control and maintain your weight.

What is the most time-efficient workout that will burn lots of calories and fat, and still allow you to enjoy all the festivities? Interval training! It only takes 20 minutes or so three times a week so you can fit it into your schedule even during the busiest times.

Not sure how to make the most of your interval training session? That's where a fitness instructor can help you by creating a set of exercises that will boost your metabolism and burn fat for dramatic results during the holiday season — and beyond.

James Cipriani started his personal training career in May of 1994 and then in June of 1997 launched his own company: Cutting Edge Personal Training. Information on his programs, fitness tips and client testimonials are available at www.JamesCipriani.com. Cipriani, a certified personal trainer with over 17 years of experience in the fitness industry, can be reached at Jim@JamesCipriani.com or 203-775-5128.