Small Steps, Big Wins: How to Make Progress During the Holidays
Holiday Fitness Tips: How to Stay Active and Healthy During December Without Feeling Overwhelmed
It’s the second week of December, and I know what you’re thinking: How am I supposed to stay on track during the holidays? Your fitness goal is set, and now the parties, dinners, and family gatherings are in full swing.
Let me coach you through this. We start small and realistic. Instead of saying, “I’m losing 10 pounds this month,” shift your focus to what you can control. Goals aren’t just about outcomes — they’re about actions.
Here’s one action-based goal: fuel your body consistently. Eat breakfast and lunch. Don’t skip meals to “save calories.” Keep those meals light and balanced so you’re not walking into a holiday event starving. Going in hungry almost always leads to overeating. At the gathering, build your plate with protein and vegetables first, then add carbs in smaller portions.
This isn’t restriction — it’s strategy. And listen closely: do not punish yourself by skipping dessert. Have it. Enjoy it. Just keep the portion small or share it with someone.
Progress comes from consistency, not extremes. Movement matters too. A simple walk before or after your meal helps digestion, boosts your metabolism, and keeps your body active throughout the day. It all counts. You can also make smart swaps. Less carbs? Add more protein and vegetables. The goal is to feel satisfied — not stuffed and uncomfortable.
We’re about 15 days from Christmas. Can you commit to 15 minutes a day? If you’ve got more in you, make it 30. But here’s the truth: something beats nothing every single time.
This is how you approach the holidays without guilt, stress, or all-or-nothing thinking. Enjoy the foods you love — just stay mindful. You’ve already made a powerful decision by starting your fitness journey now. Stay consistent, stay intentional, and trust the process. You’ve got this.
Angela Richardson
15-Minute Beginner Workout No equipment • At home • Coach-approved
You don’t need an hour. You don’t need perfection. You just need 15 minutes and commitment. Let’s get moving.
Warm-Up (3 Minutes)
Move with control and focus.
- March in place – 1 minute
- Arm circles + shoulder rolls – 30 seconds
- Standing torso twists – 30 seconds
- Bodyweight squats (easy pace) – 1 minute
Main Workout (10 Minutes)
We’re working in short intervals. Go at your own pace. Rest when you need it.
Circuit — Repeat 2 Rounds
- Chair squats – 30 seconds (Sit back, chest tall)
- Wall or knee push-ups – 30 seconds (Modify as needed — strength is built over time)
- Step-backs or reverse lunges – 30 seconds (Alternate legs, slow and controlled)
- Standing core crunch or knee raises – 30 seconds (Engage your core)
- March or light jog in place – 1 minute (Get your heart rate up)
- Rest 30–45 seconds between rounds.
Cool-Down (2 Minutes)
Slow it down.
- Standing quad stretch – 30 seconds each leg (1 minute)
- Hamstring stretch – 30 seconds
- Deep breaths, arms overhead – 30 seconds
Reminder: This workout isn’t about burning yourself out. It’s about building consistency. Show up. Move with intention. And when 15 minutes feels easy, you can build from there. Something is always better than nothing — especially during the holidays.
📩 Want support? Questions? Or for Virtual or In-person Training Sessions
Contact: Email me at journey2yourresultsfitness@gmail.com
🧘🏾♀️ Follow me right here every Wellness Wednesday on Atlantic City Focus
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