As the end of the year approaches, most of us have holiday travel, holiday parties, and of course holiday stress on our minds. Working out tends to make the bottom of our “to do” list. Don’t use the holidays as an excuse NOT to work out, use them to kick start your new years resolutions!
Exercise has some amazing healthy benefits. When we think exercise we usually think of staying in shape or losing weight. Next time you want to put off working out for your holiday shopping or planning, think of these health benefits, they may just change your mind!
- Improves Mood: The holidays are stressful. Working out can combat that stress by releasing endorphin's to make you feel more happy and relaxed!
- Boosts Energy: Feeling tired after a day of shopping? Increasing your physical activity not only gets more oxygen to your tissues, but improves your cardiovascular system. When you incorporate the two together, you’ll have more energy to get through your long days.
- Improves Sleep: Studies are showing that after consistently working out for at least 12 weeks, you will see improvements in sleep. Some people notice improvements immediately!
- Improves Sex Life: Need I say more! If you feel too tired or too out of shape, it’s time to hit the gym. Men who exercise regularly have fewer issues with ED and working out has been shown to increase arousal in women.
How does one find the time to sneak in a workout during the busy holiday season? It’s easy! You can do a lot in a 30-minute work out!
Find out what's happening in Libertyvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
- Create your own 30-minute circuit. Warm up with jumping jacks, do a minute of crunches, a minute of squats, a minute of push-ups and so on. Do 5-10 exercises and repeat the circuit for 30 minutes.
- Pack equipment. There is no reason you can’t bring a swimsuit for the hotel, exercise bands or a jump rope. These items are lightweight and can be used anywhere you are traveling.
- Do the stairs. Wherever you are take the stairs instead. A few flights of stairs can be a great workout. Park further away while you are shopping to get a few more steps in.
Have fun with it! There is no reason to wait until the New Year to get active! Have a safe and HEALTHY holiday season!
"Never put off tomorrow what you can do today"
