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Staying active during the holidays can be a challenge, especially as the holidays bring extra responsibilities and time pressures. However, with a little creativity and planning, it’s possible to remain active and healthy while still enjoying the festivities. 🎁🎉
Here are some tips for keeping active over the festive period:
1. Take Advantage of the Outdoors 🌞🌊
- Beach activities: Christmas in Australia is often synonymous with beach days. Grab a frisbee 🥏, beach ball 🏖️, kite 🪁, or even a cricket set 🏏 for a fun game with family or friends. Kicking a ball ⚽ around is another great way to stay active while enjoying the sand and sea. Swimming 🏊♀️, beach volleyball 🏐, or simply walking along the shore 🚶🏽♀️ are excellent ways to keep moving.
- Going for a walk or exploring: Whether it’s a stroll after dinner or exploring a new area if you’re on holiday, walking is an easy and enjoyable way to stay active 🌳🚶♂️. You can make it a social outing by inviting friends, family, or neighbours to join in.
- Bike rides: Cycling 🚴♀️, whether along the beach, in the park, or through quiet streets, is a simple and enjoyable way to stay active. It’s a great option whether you’re with family or riding solo for some fresh air.
- Going to the playground: For those with kids or grandkids, a trip to the playground can be active for everyone. Push kids on swings 🛝, climb alongside them, or play a game of chase.
2. Utilise Family Time for Exercise 🏃♀️
- Family or group walks: After a big meal 🍽️ or as a break between holiday activities, take a walk with your family or friends. It’s a great way to bond, get some fresh air, and keep moving.
- Holiday scavenger hunt: Create a festive scavenger hunt 🕵️♀️ at home or in a local park. Include light challenges like hopping or jogging to the next clue, making it enjoyable for all ages.
- Dance to Christmas music: Turn up the holiday tunes 🎶 and have a dance session—whether alone, with kids, or even at a holiday gathering. Dancing is a fun, mood-boosting way to stay active. 🎄💃
3. Schedule “Me Time” for Fitness 🧘♀️🕒
- Early morning or evening workouts: The holidays can be hectic, but finding a quiet moment in the early morning 🌅 or evening 🌙 can help you prioritise movement. A short workout session can leave you feeling energised and refreshed.
- Solo activities: If you prefer solo exercise, activities like yoga 🧘♂️, a jog 🏃♀️, or even a home workout session can help you stay active.
4. Set Realistic and Flexible Goals 🎯💪
- 10-minute blocks: When time is tight, aim for short bursts of activity. Even 10 minutes of movement, like stretching, a brisk walk, or bodyweight exercises, can help you maintain your routine.
- Flexibility: Understand that things might not always go according to plan 🗓️. Don’t stress if you miss a workout; focus on consistency over perfection.
5. Stay Social While Staying Active 🏃♀️👫
- Join a parkrun: Many cities host parkrun events 🏃♂️ throughout the holiday season. These free, timed 5km runs or walks are open to everyone and are a fantastic way to stay active while connecting with your community.
- Host backyard cricket: Instead of a purely sedentary holiday gathering, organise a backyard cricket game 🏏. It’s a fun and casual way to get everyone involved—whether they’re kids, adults, or grandparents.
6. Kids or Family 👶🏽🤸♀️
- Partner workouts: For those with young children, turn your workout into bonding time by including them. Squats or lunges while holding a child can be both a workout and a playful activity.
- Stretching together: Yoga or light stretching can be a shared activity with family or even done solo for a calming end to your day.
7. Don’t Forget to Rest and Recover 😴💤
- Prioritise rest: While staying active is important, the holiday season is also a time to recharge 🔋. Quality sleep and moments of relaxation can ensure you have the energy to stay active and enjoy your time with loved ones.
By creatively incorporating movement into your day, whether it’s with family, friends, or solo, you can stay active and healthy while enjoying the holiday season. 🥳🎁
If you’d like to make an appointment with one of our amazing Women’s Health Physiotherapists, you can make a booking or call the clinic on (03) 8828 4761.
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