Christmas is such an exciting time. There’s so much to do, social engagements to attend, and family members to see. Considering all this busyness it’s not surprising that fitness often takes a back seat!

We tend to replace exercise classes with eating mince pies… However, this is also the season when we want to look and feel our best. So, to help make sure all those festive preparations don’t get in the way of your exercise goals here are a few ways to integrate work outs into your holiday routine…

Energetic Christmas preparations

While it may not involve heavy sweating at the gym, a lot of Christmas prep can be pretty energetic.

If you are looking to lose weight, control your cholesterol or simply feel a bit fitter why not try integrating some work outs into your preparations? Lift up heavy boxes of Christmas decorations as you would do with weights, walk a few extra laps round the shops when buying gifts or try doing star jumps while you’re waiting for the turkey to cook.

Whatever you are doing there is a way to make it that bit more physical and it’s those little things that can make a big difference in the end.

Do some winter hiking

Even though we are very busy at this time of year it’s important to take a bit of time out and what better way to do so than go on a winter hike?

There are some really beautiful walks in the frosty weather this time of year. Instead of slouching in front of the TV why not make your Christmas festivities a long walk or hike instead? You might get some groans from the kids, but they’ll feel good about it afterwards and you can reward yourself with some turkey and stuffing sandwiches.

Dance the season away

Finally, there’s one form of exercise that most people are pretty used to doing at this time of year – dancing! Even for the shy, Christmas is a time to let loose and get your dancing shoes on. Luckily this is also a great form of exercise.

Why not try preparing for parties by going to a few dance exercise classes at the gym? That way you’ll be losing weight and helping to control your cholesterol while making sure you look great on the dance floor too.

Those are our top tips when it comes to improving your fitness before Christmas. There are lots of things you can do this festive season to get energetic and healthy. Just try not to eat too much Christmas pudding in the end…