I certainly understand the struggle to balance work, family, a social life, and a healthy diet, all during the busiest time of year, the holidays.  Between parties at work, family gatherings, shopping and preparing for the festivities, staying fit may be the first thing to escape your mind. There are only so many hours in a day, and cramming in a gym session sounds less attractive when your last minute holiday shopping and have gifts to wrap.

I competed in my first fitness competition in May of 2008, which meant that I was dieting and training during the holiday season.  I often found that using a little creativity, I could manage a workout right in my own living room, which saved valuable time.  Using your own body weight, or something as simple as an exercise band, and a yoga ball, you can get the kind of work out that you would only expect to get from an intense session at the gym.

Here is one of my favorites:

Oblique’s: Now, most of us know how to do standard crunches….so here is a challenging abdominal exercise that will keep your waistline narrow during the holidays…Its called the Side Plank.  Lay on your side, one elbow on the floor, and the other arm resting on your hip. Using your abdominals raise yourself up until your oblique is completely flexed, then relax. Complete 12 of these before switching to the other side and repeating the same exercise, until you reach 3 sets.

These are just a few tips, but hopefully they will spark your interest, and inspire you to continue to use your home as a great alternative to hitting the gym this holiday season.  Always remember, it’s important to eat a healthy, diverse diet.  It is possible to eat right during the holiday season, and it will make the additional few splurges that much more satisfying.

Happy Holidays!