By Radley West, Owner at Anytime Fitness
We all know Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Depending on how you look at it, either Halloween or Thanksgiving marks the official start of what I like to call the “eating season.” I know, food isn’t technically the reason for the season, but let’s be honest, it kind of feels like the underlying thread in all our gatherings, doesn’t it? Whether it’s pumpkin pie or turkey with all the fixings, food finds a way to take center stage!
Here’s the thing: it’s way too easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of food, family, and fun during the holidays. Before you know it, you’re in a food coma wondering how you went from “just a taste” to “I need new pants.” Trust me, I’ve been there.
But, let’s talk strategy! If we play it smart, you can enjoy all the festive food without packing on the pounds that’ll send you sprinting to the nearest gym come January (though, as a gym owner running a $1-to-join special in January… no pressure, but I wouldn’t mind seeing you there).
First up, this might sound counterintuitive, but don’t skip meals. I know, I know—you’re thinking, “But I’ve got that party tonight, I’ll just save my calories!” Here’s the deal: skipping meals is just a fast track to showing up starving and eating like you’ve been stranded on a desert island. Spoiler alert: you’ll overdo it. So, eat something light before heading out, and you’ll thank yourself later when you’re not stuffed to the brim.
Now, onto the drinks. Let’s be real: holiday beverages are like liquid landmines of calories (I’m looking at you, eggnog). So here’s my golden rule: drink the first, sip the second, and skip the third. Yes, I know, the eggnog is delicious, but it’s doing zero favors for your waistline. And hey, if you’re chasing those elusive six-pack abs, alcohol’s not your friend—just saying.
Third on the list: be the social butterfly. Talk, mingle, be the life of the party (or at least pretend to be). If your mouth is busy chatting, it can’t be busy stuffing itself, right? Just remember to freshen your breath beforehand—no one likes a close-talker with garlic breath.
And as a gym owner, I’ve got to throw this one in: get that pre-party workout in. Burn the calories before you eat them! I know the holidays make it tough to keep up with workouts, but between the extra food, sweets, and family stress (we’ve all been there), the gym might just become your new best friend.
Finally, don’t leave home without snacks—especially if you’re out doing holiday shopping. Nothing derails your day faster than getting hangry and grabbing fast food because it’s convenient. Toss a water bottle and some beef jerky in your bag, and you’ll be ready to take on those holiday crowds without hitting up the food court.
So, there you have it—my foolproof strategies for surviving the holiday season without needing a post-Thanksgiving wardrobe upgrade. Enjoy the food, enjoy the season, but go in with a game plan. You don’t need to “healthify” everything—just use common sense.
Good luck, have fun, and if you’re traveling for Thanksgiving, be safe! And hey, if the holiday treats get the best of you, I’ll see you in January—$1 to join membership and all!
