As the festive season rolls in, it’s easy to put fitness on the back burner, planning to hit the gym hard in January. However, December presents a unique opportunity to get a head start on those New Year resolutions, and here’s why.
Turning Holiday Calories into Muscle: December is synonymous with festive feasts and extra treats. Rather than seeing this as a setback, use it to your advantage! Those extra calories can be the fuel for your workouts, helping you to build muscle more efficiently. When you engage in strength training or high-intensity workouts, your body can use this surplus energy to repair and grow muscles.
Easier Weight Management in January: Starting your fitness routine in December means you’re ahead of the game come January. As you build muscle and enhance your metabolism, your body becomes more efficient at burning calories, making post-holiday weight loss easier and more effective.
Beat the Winter Blues: Exercise is a fantastic mood booster, especially important during the shorter, colder days of winter. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, often known as ‘happy hormones,’ which can help combat seasonal blues and keep your spirits high.
Avoid the January Rush: Gyms are notoriously crowded in January. Starting in December allows you to familiarize yourself with the gym environment, establish a routine, and avoid the rush. Plus, you’ll get more personalized attention from trainers who aren’t yet overwhelmed with the New Year influx.
Set a Positive Tone for the New Year: By starting your fitness journey in December, you’re not just working on your physical health; you’re also setting a precedent for the New Year. It’s about creating a mindset focused on wellbeing and consistency, which is a powerful way to kickstart the new year.
So, don’t wait until January to make those health resolutions. Embrace the festive spirit and use it to fuel your fitness journey. Your future self will thank you!