Staying on Track {Giveaway}
*******This giveaway has already ended. Stay tuned for more!
Hey everyone! How was your day?
I was blown away by all of your awesome comments and sweet compliments on the Zumba videos. Even though it’s a little more challenging than it usually is, I still love teaching so.so much. Dancing makes me happy and is one of the few things that feels good right now, so I’m sticking with it as long as I can. Maybe I can plan some “let’s take a Zumba class” meet-ups when I get back into the traveling thing 🙂
Last night, while nana, madre and I were shopping, I couldn’t believe that all of the Christmas decor was already up. It’s like retail skips right past Halloween into Christmas, which I love, but it just seems so early this year. Just another excuse to get the tree up before Thanksgiving, eh?
[Our 2009 tree]
Holidays are definitely already on the brain for many people, and it was the topic for this morning’s conference call.
After I posted this morning’s post, I hopped on a video conference with the Shape Magazine Senior Associate Lifestyle Editor. The funny thing is that I woke up a little earlier so I could brush my hair and look semi-human, but we could just see and hear her, no one else could see us.
The funny thing is that if I would have zombie-d it, it would have been set up where everyone else could see me. Isn’t that how it always works out?
Anyway,
the video chat was fantastic. The speaker was Bahar Takhtehchian, and she discussed her favorite tips for staying on track during the holidays. She was a joy to listen to, but I couldn’t help but think “I’ve heard all of these tips before. I hope she shares a secret awesome trick I can share with my readers.” But the truth is, the methods to staying on track during the holidays are really all things we’ve heard before. Just like healthy living in general: the idea behind it is simple, but the execution is where it can get tricky.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the things she discussed, along with my own tips in brackets:
-You can still enjoy the holidays while maintaining your fitness and health accomplishments- treats are ok! [I am a huge believer in treating yourself! The only time we can run into challenges is when we tend to celebrate holidays over and over and over again. If it’s Thanksgiving, live it up- but after that holiday, get back into the usual swing of things]
-Make important choices during the day. Enjoy a satisfying breakfast with a combo of whole grains and protein- choose foods that will fill you up and keep snacking at bay. As far as lunch goes, choose something like salad, broth-based soups, salad, whole-grain sandwich (hummus or avocado instead of mayo), and keep lunch lighter since those who are at work are unable to nap after lunch and digest a large amount of food. [I also like to enjoy something healthy before going out to a party, such as some soup or a large salad. This way, I know that I’ve had some veggies and nutrients before the party, and don’t arrive ready to stuff the buffet table into my face]
-Go for healthy snacks, as they keep blood sugar stable and rev the metabolism. Some good choices: fruits, nuts and yogurt. [Amazeballs, egg puffs, smoothies, small salads, veggies and hummus, banana or apple + almond butter, deli meat or tempeh rolled up with some goat cream cheese, Larabars]
-Aim to get enough fiber. Women need 25g per day and men need 38g. Not only does it help with satiety, it can help to prevent disease.
-Stay hydrated (avoid caffeine since it has a dehydrating effect, and we can easily mistake thirst for hunger). Take H2O in a bottle with you, or flavor it with some lemon zest [I also like to add fresh berries, cucumber, mint, or orange slices to add some flavor]
-Keep moving! Use the mall for cardio, walk and chat with a friend (extremely beneficial in such a technology-focused environment), find a class you love (an instructor who inspires you, amazing music make all the difference), work out with a buddy who will motivate you to reach your goals, make small changes.
-Choose wisely and don’t overdo it.
When it comes to the holidays, I really think it’s important to remove pressure from yourself as far as working out and eating perfectly. The holidays aren’t a time to go on a crazy diet or set some lofty fitness goals- it’s a time to kick back, relax and enjoy family, friends and the season. I think that it’s much easier to stick to what you want to achieve when you’re willing to cut yourself some slack. Enjoy dessert, just don’t enjoy it every single day at every chance you get –treats are everywhere, from now until New Year’s. I’ll usually go for the ones that are really *worth it* like my nana’s Bundt cake, or my other nana’s Thanksgiving pies. If it came from a factory, it’s not worth it to me.
[Thanksgiving table of dessert justice]
As far as cocktails go, I don’t really have to worry about that this year, but usually I’ll go for something clear with club soda, a beautiful cocktail or fancy pants glass of wine and savor it.
As far as fitness goes, if you’re running short on time, go for a quick and effective workout. HIIT is one of my faves- 20 minutes and you’ll torch a ton of calories and have a higher afterburn effect throughout the rest of the day. For weights, choose compound movements that work more than one muscle group at a time (like lunges with a bicep curl or overhead press).
Definitely look for the forest, not the trees, and in the grand scheme of things, if you’re *mostly* sticking to your usual habits, a few extras here and there are NBD.
What holiday meal/treat are you most looking forward to? What’s one of your tips for staying on track during the holiday season?
I cannot wait for Thanksgiving. Cranberry sauce, stuffing and pie… and I’m drooling.
When you leave a comment, you’ll be entered to win an amazing prize pack from Shape magazine:
-a one-year subscription to Shape magazine
-a yoga mat
-a stability ball
-a pedometer
-box of Fiber One Brownies
See ya in the morning with 10 Ways to Make November Gnarly <— help me with this title? haha
xoxo
Gina
**************************This giveaway has ended as of 11/3 12:01 AM EST. Stay tuned for more fun giveaways in the near future!
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I am looking forward to Christmas with lots and lots of sorrel
my have is the stuffing! and pumpkin pie!
and my tip is only eat the homemade stuff that you only get to eat that time of the year. only the dishes that’s really worth it!
I would LOVE to take a Zumba class with you!!!
And would love the shape prize pack too 🙂
Thank you so much for these tips! I’m looking forward to my mom’s Kentucky derbie pie as well as my nona’s sweet potatoes!
I’m really looking forward to all the pumpkin goodness that is everywhere this time of year, and spending time with friends & family 🙂 My best tip for staying on track during the holidays is to never show up to parties/get togethers hungry!
I’m a sucker for the dessert table! That, and potato latkes at chanukkah (jew!).
My tip for myself over the holidays is to NOT consider them special occasions when it comes to what foods to eat. Nutrients first, then treats. If I think of them as holidays, then I’m very likely to skip the maim meal and go right to dessert.
I can’t wait to actually COOK Thanksgiving dinner – my sis and I handled the majority of it last year – so FUN! I’m excited to eat roasted brussels sprouts and pumpkin pie… 🙂
Our family, including our new little 5-month old baby girl, Lily, are starting a new tradition where we will hike on Thanksgiving morning. Ahhh,,,the benefits of living in AZ in the winter!! 🙂
I LOVE my mom’s sweet potatoes, as well as her broccoli casserole. As far as staying on track during the holidays, I allow myself to have a taste of anything I want, but don’t feel the need to take a full serving of each thing.
Zumba looks awesome and I cannot wait to go home and see my family over thanksgiving and enjoy some home cooked meals 🙂
I am so looking forward to pumpkin pie (I’m going paleo though with coconut milk and no crust!) My best tip would be to get rid of leftovers, fast! If they are hanging around the house I am so tempted to just keep digging in. The veggies and meat I will keep, but the rest has to be out the door, lol!
enjoy and savor your food, don’t rush it! I look forward to my mommy’s cooking when i get home from break from college!
I look forward to healthy sweet potatoes. My mom makes them with OJ, Cinnamon and pineapple. SO good!
my family always does a huge slew of appitizers vs a traditional meal… its my favorite!
Starbucks peppermint mocha in a red holiday cup 🙂 just makes me happy. Also baking with my sisters and enjoying some of our efforts!
Good tips for the holiday season! I’m a chronic snacker and dessert-fiend, so it’s always good to be mindful what I’m putting in the body. I’m looking forward to my mom’s pumpkin rolls and crumb-top apple pie!!
LOVE Christmas!! My family is so much fun and full of jokesters, my face usually hurts when we leave a family gathering from laughing so much!! I have to say apple crisp is my fav holiday treat, but I make a healthy version and no one ever noctices a difference. I stay on track by not depriving my self of the things I want, but I also make sure I still make time for myself at the gym through all the madness of the holidays!:)
My favorite treat is hands down my mum’s sweet potato pie. It is the most divine thing I have ever put in my mouth. I adore it. And to stay on track during the holidays, I default to the 1/3 rule. For every non water beverage I have (soda, coffee, tea), I have to have 3 glasses of pure clean water. It keeps me hydrated and fuller longer!
I just hope to get to have anything holiday food-ish this year! I’ve lived abroad for the last two years and have missed all the end of the year holidays 🙁
this may sound weird but i loooove a good roasted brussels sprouts side dish! the holidays are always jam packed.. my tip is to sneak in a workout in the AM before the craziness begins! 🙂
I always look forward to green bean casserole- its the best! I’m looking to all of YOUR advice to make sure this holiday season isn’t gut busting. 🙂
My favorite holiday snack is definitely chips and dip! It’s so sad… I could literally sit at the dip table all day just trying them all out. My mom makes this cheesy dip that is absolutely amazing with ridges potato chips. (not healthy one bit, but oh so good)
So, I hate that my first comment is for a giveaway, but free yoga mat?? I’ve been practicing Bikram for a while now on the same old mat and I need an upgrade!
I can NOT get enough of pumpkin. Pumpkin pie, lattes, ice cream, you name it. And one of my tips for staying on track is to get moving for at least 10 minutes a day. A walk with a family member, grooving on the dance floor, whatever, as long as you’re active!
Gosh, I love all the holiday food… too hard to choose! For the past few year, my goal is to maintain through the holidays. If I see a gain on the scale, I will add some cardio and veggies.
Stuffing!!!! And I love making Christmas goody plates and delivering them to friends and neighbors- I’m thinking about hosting a cookie exchange/Goody plate making party this year.
I love pumpkin pie and turkey! It’s funny because turkey is available all year, yet I only enjoy it usually on Thanksgiving. My tip for staying on track during the holidays: make an extra effort to get workouts done in the morning so the evenings can be enjoyed with whatever task/event is on hand.
I am definitely looking forward to going to visit my parent’s family in Pittsburgh and having my grandma’s chocolate chip cookies–just the right amount of salty and chewiness! And my advice to anyone is just enjoy it, but in moderation. And don’t shy away from the gym just because of the cold(er) weather!
I love a delish seasonal drink from Starbucks! Yum.
i can’t wait for my sister’s stuffing! she made it for the first time last year, and i don’t remember what was in it, i just remember that she didn’t make nearly enough 🙂
to stay on track this year, my sister and i entered a fun run in our hometown. squeezing in an early workout will help us enjoy the rest of the holiday.
I can’t wait to bury my face in sweet potato casserole with the toasted marshmallows on top. Mmmmm 🙂 My tip for staying on track during the holiday craziness is just to stay consistent with my workouts– it’s great for keeping the pounds from creeping on and a perfect stress reliever. 🙂
You could say “10 Ways to Make November Notable”….. but that doesn’t sound cool enough 🙂
I don’t know if anyone has said it but your title can include the word nifty in some way (Ie. “How to make your November Nifty”)
I don’t really have special treats that I look forward to I guess, just my birthday (Christmas day) and lots and lots of family time!!
Love SHAPE (and love Fitnessista more!) The Fiber One Brownies sound good!
Mushroom stuffing and pie(s)! I try to fill my holiday plate with mostly good for me food (veggies, lean turkey), and then get small helpings of all the super tasty but not so nutritious other food. That way I fill my belly but don’t over indulge too much! I also try to jog or at least take a long walk on a Holiday (to work up my appetite of course 🙂 and try to eat meals as regularly as possible so that I’m not starving and then tempted to stuff myself with all that stuffing!
Love your snack suggestions. I need to get back to cooking more real food! I’ve been slacking… thanks for your amazing blog.
I love your blog, It’s the only one I read every day. I think this is my first comment.! You’re amazing to be zumba-ing like that right now :).
I’m looking forward to the Thanksgiving sweet potatoes and then I love sweets, so definitely a good pumpkin pie and whatever other holiday desserts might come my way…
I’ll try my best to keep on taking bites instead of full pieces, working out as much as usual, and not giving into “special occasion” excuses that turn into days and weeks and months!!
I’m looking forward to my grandma’s yams with marshmallows on top.. and I’d loooove to have a nice piece of pumpkin pie. However, I’ll probably have to be making my own pie with a gluten free crust. 😛 I know it’s very hard to stay on track, but my best tip would be to stick to your normal exercise routine and also realize when you’re full. I know when you’re spending time with family/having fun/etc. it’s easy to keep stuffing those goodies into your face. I’ve been guilty of it!
Stuffing smothered in gravy and buttered Parker House rolls on Thanksgiving… and for Christmas my Mom’s pecan thumbprint cookies – I look forward to baking (and eating!) thumbprints with her alllllll year.
As a vegetarian, my favorite treat at Thanksgiving is definitely some SERIOUS MAC&CHEESE. We don’t fool around – gruyere, swiss, irish cheddar, loads of black peppercorn freshly ground, and… *ahem* butter 😛
God knows I’ll need that medicine ball!
I cannot wait for cornbread! I stay on track by making everything myself and continue drinking water as well as working out.
Baci chocolates! They are delicious and have a little saying with each one, kind of like a fortune. Also all the holiday themed drinks from Starbucks!
Every December my gym has a “12workouts of Christmas” charity event. Do 12 workouts >45min in December and you get entered into a raffle. The cost to enter is a donation to a local charity. It’s a fun way to stay motivated to keep up workouts during the holidays and support a good cause.
I’m looking forward to home made Christmas baking and spending time with family! And since I have recently made a major lifestyle change by eating healthy and tons of execrcise, I do zumba 4 days a week! Hopefully that keeps me healthy during the holiday season!
Thanks for the tips! I definitely think that I need to be more concious about what type of foods I’m eating at breakfast and snacks to keep me feeling full and staying healthy…not just at the holidays, but all the time!
And I love Shape!
I’m definitely looking forward to some sweet potato casserole!!
Meal I am Looking forward to: Vegetarian Stuffing Balls! MMMMmmm
Tip to Stay on Track: Let myself take a day break during the holiday but set up an intense work out the day after, that way I feel like I haven’t compromised my entire lifestyle as I know it is just one day and not the rest of my life!
I recently found your blog this past summer. I am enjoying it so much. I love all the ideas you have and am dying to try out some of your workouts. I am in nursing school and am having trouble finding the time to exercise, but all the exercises you talk about make me want to have the chance to do them, but I am crazy busy.
I actually don’t really have trouble staying on track during the holidays…I’ve never been a big sweets person and my family is not huge on giant, elaborate meals. I guess my one downfall is Bailey’s + vanilla almond milk over ice 🙂 That NEVER gets old!
I would love the Shape prize pack!
The tips through the holidays are great. Its a great time of year, so its important to not stress out about every food you eat.
Green Bean Casserole or Mashed Potato Soufle. To stay on track I will get up early in the AM to work out if I have an event/party in the evening.
Pumpkin Pie!!! I’m not a huge Thanksgiving meal fan…but I love the dessert part! My tip is to bring healthy food to parties as a gift (more of a gift to myself)!