How to keep fit and “elfie” this Christmas…

How to keep fit and “elfie” this Christmas…, and beyond!

All good intentions regarding exercise go out the window during the festive period, but that doesn’t have to be the case and particularly when you will most likely be eating and sitting down more it really shouldn’t be the case either.

Perhaps your local gym has reduced hours making it difficult to attend or your exercise class is taking a break until the new year, it is time to think creatively and do something different instead.

Last week, the kids got on their bikes while my husband and I ran next to them, a slight detour to the play park but we covered 7 miles in total; we have 8 miles planned this weekend. All of us benefited from being out in the fresh air on what otherwise would’ve been a fairly grey and dismal Saturday.

Do you ever make journeys that you could easily walk? This time of year is perfect to give your feet some action – avoiding the hustle and bustle of busy town centres, as well as the stress of finding a parking space.

If you prefer to exercise indoors why not try this Christmas circuit, perhaps go for a 15 minute walk first and then complete the exercises for 5 minutes?

* STAR jumps – 10 reps

* DASHER runs – mark out 2 spots and run between them for 30 seconds

* DANCER freestyle – 30 seconds “rocking” out to one of your favourite tunes

* “CHRISTMAS” TREE yoga pose – hold for 10-15 seconds (to improve balance)

* SNOW ANGELS  – 1 minute (to improve shoulder flexibility)

* FIVE GOLD RINGS – dust off your hula hoop and aim for 5 rotations in each direction

I’d love to know if you can think of any more seasonal exercises……

Emma

** If you are new to exercise, seek medical advice before commencing a new regime, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me if any of the exercises require further information **