FORGIVE US IF we sound like the scrooge who stole Christmas here but we only have your best interests at heart.
The big man doesn’t arrive for almost three weeks and that’s more than enough time to derail even the most ardent fitness enthusiast.
So we’ve drawn up a list of 10 ways you can keep the weight down and the fitness up this festive season, starting NOW, not on Christmas Day because all bets are off that day…
Load up on the veg
Eat as much veg as you can/like but try not to have them smothered in calorie-loaded additives like sauce or butter…
Choose a healthy starter
Given you’ll probably hog whatever dessert comes your way, why not try to balance out this over-indulgence by opting for a healthy starter like a low-calorie soup or salad?
Battle for the breast of turkey
The breast of turkey is one of the healthiest things you’ll probably eat all Christmas as it’s loaded with protein which is great for repairing damaged muscle cells. Don’t be shy here – it will take up space that could potentially be filled by chocolate.
Easy on the trimmings
Roast potatoes, sausage stuffing, potato gratin, bread sauce…the list goes on. Would we be wasting our time suggesting you use a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon when it comes to heaping these on your plate?
Try to limit your portion sizes
Try to leave the table still feeling comfortable. One way to do this is to put smaller amounts on your plate (and wine glass) and refill accordingly. Christmas is not an eating competition!
Exercise early
Fire up the metabolism by getting out for a run or a brisk walk first thing in the morning – even before breakfast to help burn fat faster.
A morning exercise routine puts your mind at ease and means you won’t feel guilty about doing nothing later…when an inevitable party you must attend comes up.
Go for sensible snacks
Another long shot, we admit, but why not pass on a fist of the offering of mince pies or sherry trifle and go for something with less calories, like baked apples or pears? You’ll thank us in January…
Plan your training
Don’t get caught out by your gyms opening hours and rock up on Christmas Eve at 3pm only to find the doors heavily bolted and a sign to see you back next year. Make a plan, stick to it, even if it is 30 minutes of exercise a day, you’ll feel better, look better, and enjoy Christmas more.
Have alcohol-free days
Christmas is supposed to be 12 days long, right? Not the case. It’s probably twice that long actually – because by our reckoning, it’s the time when The Pogues’ seminal song is acceptable to play. That’s a lot of nights out, so why not give the booze a miss some night? You might just enjoy yourself!
Originally published 07.00