How to Stay Consistent During the Holidays
Between travel, family gatherings, and endless treats, the holidays can derail even the most disciplined routines. This time from late November to New Year’s, or what we call the holiday season, is usually when we take time to be present with our families or go on trips and we often get so busy that other focuses fall to the wayside. Tasks that would normally be a priority, like going to the gym or staying mindful of what we eat, get harder to manage. People just have less time to be as particular which may have a negative effect on any long term goals. We want to help you manage these goals by making small, but still achievable milestones that you can surpass while still enjoying the spirit of the holiday season with your loved ones.
In this case, your mindset will be your biggest ally. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do, focus on what you can. Maybe your workouts look different or you miss a few days, but that doesn’t erase the progress you’ve made. The holidays are a time to practice flexibility, not perfection. One of the most efficient ways to maintain some holiday discipline and practice that flexibility may be to set small goals for yourself. Instead of doing a full length workout 5x weekly, it may be better to aim for working out 3 times a week with an active rest day in the mix. Maybe you have to sacrifice a strength day because the family has a get together planned, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your movement altogether; offer an evening family walk to get in some cardio. If you were supposed to run three miles that day and got caught up in other plans, let’s see if the family is up for a one mile walk and playing some outdoor games instead of sitting on the couch together. Another few small goals could be to make sure you keep up with hydration and prioritize protein. Doing these two things can help keep you fuller for longer periods of time and balance any indulgences without actually restricting yourself. That way, you can still have a slice of pumpkin pie and not feel guilty because you don’t think you did anything that day to “earn it”. More than anything though, it's important to remember that consistency isn’t about doing everything perfectly, it’s about doing something every day that keeps you moving forward.
Even if the gym sees you a bit less during this time, that doesn’t mean you are any less motivated than you were before, just that your schedule looks a bit different for the time being and that is not something to feel guilty about. Getting in the gym during the holidays may very well feel like the last thing you want to do with your time, and given how busy the holidays can be, that is completely understandable. Remember that home workouts, family activities and long walks are just as good of movement as anything else and it is definitely better than doing nothing at all. At Primitive x Swole AF we totally understand the struggle, and our goal is to ensure that you have the ability and the resources to manage your time and your gains while still enjoying the holidays with your loved ones. It’s all about finding the small ways to incorporate fitness into your day without turning that sense of responsibility to yourself into a burden. We’re all about showing up, even when life gets hectic. Join us in making this holiday season the most balanced one yet, one small win at a time.
Want support staying consistent this holiday season?
Whether you're traveling, hosting family, or just trying to stay on track, we're here to help you stay active without burning out.
💪 Join us for modified holiday training
💬 Ask a coach how to adjust your plan for the season
Stay in motion without the pressure. Let us help you keep the momentum going through the holidays and beyond.
FAQs
Q: How do I stay active when I’m traveling or with family during the holidays?
Focus on small, manageable wins like short workouts, long walks, or active games. You do not have to go all in every time to maintain consistency.
Q: Can I still make progress with fewer workouts during the holidays?
Absolutely. Progress isn’t lost just because your schedule shifts. What matters most is that you stay consistent in ways that work for you right now.
Q: What if I miss a few days?
Missing a few days is not the end of your routine. Refocus when you can and celebrate the effort you are putting in instead of stressing about perfection.
Q: How do I balance enjoying food with staying on track?
Try to stay hydrated and prioritize protein. These two simple strategies can help manage hunger and energy without restricting or feeling guilty.
Q: Is it okay to take a break over the holidays?
Yes. Sometimes a short break is just what your body and mind need. Movement does not always have to be intense to be beneficial.
Keep Reading:
Meal Prep for Real Life
A little prep can go a long way. Learn how meal planning can help you stay fueled even on your busiest days.
Mental Reps Matter: Training the Inner Voice
Learn how mindset shapes success inside and outside the gym.
Don’t Wait for January: Why Real Change Happens on Random Tuesdays
Waiting for a fresh start? You don’t need a new year to make moves. Start small now.
Written by the Primitive Movement x Swole AF Team
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