It’s that time of year again, the one where we abandon our usual routines and succumb to the temptation of food, drink and merriment! It’s great fun, but then there’s the aftermath: the dreaded Christmas Belly! You shouldn’t really feel guilty about putting on the pounds at this time of year, as it tends to be a time when we all take a break from the norm and enjoy what free time we have, but how do you deal with the extra girth when the new year comes around? We took a look at five proven ways to lose some of that added weight, so here goes!
1. Diet
It’s a word we don’t like to hear, but when all is said and done, a diet is a necessary evil following the festive season! All those turkey sandwiches and festive drinks really do take their toll, so here’s what comes recommended: go on a low-carb diet. It’s a proven fact that this is a more effective method of losing that weight than a low-fat diet, and it can also be far healthier, too.
There are plenty of recipes and information on low-carb options online, so you can still enjoy delicious meals while watching the calories and carbs, and getting back to your pre-Christmas shape!
2. Exercise
It’s important that you get back on track with your regular exercise routine as quickly as possible, and that you also indulge in aerobic exercises, which are great for getting rid of that Christmas belly! It’s quite easy to incorporate this into your daily routine, too. For example, rather than take the car to the local shops, take a walk. Don’t use the elevator, take the stairs. Indulge in a few simple exercises when is convenient during the day, and you’ll soon find you begin to lose weight and get back into shape.
3. Personal Trainer
If you have long intended to get into working out on a serious or more intense basis, then this is the time to do it! Why not, for example, head down to your local gym and get yourself a personal trainer? This is an excellent move as they will be able to put together a routine that is right for you, that will achieve your aims, and that will not over-tax you too much. It’s the safest way to get going with a sensible and worthwhile exercising routine, and one that means you can enjoy your working out at your own pace.
4. Work-Out at Home
If you don’t want to get into the routine of going to and from the gym or prefer the convenience of exercising in your own home – and it is convenient as it does away with the need to travel and pay for a membership, and you can choose your own times. It is recommended that you invest in a home pull-up bar; this is just about the most cost-effective and affordable item for a home workout room – indeed, you don’t even need a dedicated room, as some models can be hung from a door! The range of exercises you can perform with pull-up bars is practically endless, so we strongly recommend you check them out and get yourself a set, even if you don’t buy any other gym equipment.
5. Keep Count of the Calories
Our final tip is one that is clearly obvious, but also one that many people overlook. No matter the diet you are on, you really need to keep a calorie count if you are going to get the best out of your regime. The variety of diets these days is such that you can eat healthily and enjoy your food, but you need to ensure your calorie count is on the ball. Draw up a plan beforehand – you can find advice from many sources online – about the diet you have chosen, and make sure you stick to it. Keep a calendar – and even plan your meals ahead – and you will soon see that, combined with the other tips we have given, counting the calories helps a great deal.
So, there you have some sound and proven advice on ways to make sure that you can enjoy your festive season, and yet be able to return to your healthy, happy shape in no time at all, so here’s to a happy Christmas to you all!