The buzz and chatter about Christmas parties is starting to spread as we come closer to that time of year where indulgence and celebrations are at their most prominent. While on your fitness journey, you may find yourself worrying about this time of year and how to best manage the variables at play when it comes to balancing everything alongside your own goals. In this article I hope to offer some simple things I recommend to my clients to both enjoy these celebrations while still having intent to move towards a goal you hold valuable. It is possible to balance both!
The before and after!
In a lot of cases, it is the before and after an event or social occasion that leaves them feeling disgruntled and further away from reaching their desired health and fitness goals. Fortunately there is plenty we can do to be proactive when looking to better manage this. If you know that there is a big meal planned, why not reduce calories in meals earlier on that day to ensure you stay that little bit closer to your calorie and macronutrient targets. Having meals prepped for the next day when cravings can sometimes be higher and discipline wavering - having meals prepped and made is a helpful way to ensure you stay goal oriented and reduces any unnecessary stress of trying to settle back into routine.
Protein first!
As mentioned above, lowering calories in the earlier parts of the day before a meal or a night out can be a helpful way of ensuring calorie intake is closer to our goal. To further enhance the effectiveness of this approach we can opt to prioritise protein sources for these meals as this will help to better manage hunger levels and will ensure we are doing what we can to manage muscle growth and recovery. Also choosing a high protein source as part of your meal out can be a good start and help you stay in line with your goals.
Hydrate!
Drinking more water throughout the day and during the night out will not only keep you hydrated, it will also serve as a beneficial strategy to better regulate hunger levels. Sufficient water intake will also help to ensure that we are doing what we can to manage digestion which can become a problem for many who have meals out and food they are not used to. Not to mention the benefits of drinking water while trying to stay hydrated while drinking alcohol!
The most important tip of all.
Enjoy yourself. You work hard on your health and fitness so you can go out and enjoy yourself while living a healthier life. Control what’s in your control and don’t forget to have some fun!
“Life is a series of moments, make them count” - Unknown
I am also delighted to announce that I am now offering an in person Personal Training service at kingfisher fitness club Waterford! Please get in touch through the contact information below or call into reception to check availability and avoid disappointment as spaces are limited! Please visit my new website www.coachedbycashel.com for more info!
Lastly, I would also like to clarify that I am not a registered dietician. All advice disclosed here is simply advisory based on my qualifications as a fitness professional and personal experience and knowledge gained working with individuals and helping them reach their goals. The advice given is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.
I hope someone out there found some of this information useful here, just some food for thought. For any questions in relation to this topic or training, nutrition, etc. or for coaching inquiries simply message me on my business page on instagram @coachedbycashel_ or by email - contact@coachedbycashel.com
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