Do you find it difficult to squeeze in an exercise routine during the busy holiday season? Have you decided to wait until the New Year to hit the gym? If so, think again. Exercise is an important component of the South Beach Diet lifestyle, and it’s a great way to help you maintain your weight during the holiday season. To help you squeeze in a workout, we came up with some simple exercises you can do on the fly. Remember, every little bit of activity can help burn calories and boost your health!
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Interval
walking. Bundle up and take a brisk
20-minute walk around your neighborhood (alternating periods of fast walking
with slow) to take in the festive lights and decorations. Or if you’re hitting
the mall for last-minute gifts, take a fast stroll around the perimeter before
you leave.
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Stair
climbing. If you live in a multilevel house,
stairs are a readily accessible exercise “tool.” Make it a point to climb up
and down them an extra 5 times each day. You can also climb the stairs at the
office during your lunch hour: Postpone eating for 10 minutes and sneak in this
quick mini-workout.
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Yoga. If you don't know any yoga exercises off the top of your
head, pick up a video at your local rental store and do some yoga in front of
the TV. Or tune in to one of the many yoga shows on the fitness networks. Yoga
not only calms you during these crazy-busy times, it also improves strength,
flexibility, and balance. At the very least, do some deep breathing!
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Weight
lifting. If you own hand weights, you can
easily do 2 to 3 sets of each of your favorite arm exercises in between errands.
If you don't have hand weights at your disposal, cans of pumpkin, cranberry
sauce, or chicken broth make great stand-ins.
- Off-the-couch crunches. Keep your abs in shape with this simple technique: Lie on the floor with your butt against the couch and your legs at a 90° angle on the cushions. Put your hands behind your head and crunch up toward the couch. Perform 2 to 3 sets of 15, or as many as you’re able.
