Every year we see posts around New Year’s with suggestions to get healthy for the new year.  This is ironic, because the average person puts on 5-7 pounds over the holiday season. Not exactly the jumpstart to slimming down and staying healthier for the new year.

The words “diet” and “exercise” make some people cringe, most people actually.  Those two words have a very negative connotation, one that exudes boredom and dullness.  It doesn’t have to be that way, and we have a couple of quick and easy tips to remember during this holiday season filled with less time to workout and high calorie foods at all of the parties you’re likely to attend.

With regard to diet this holiday season and beyond, it doesn’t mean you have to eliminate foods you love.  You can enjoy them thoroughly even, but you must use moderation.  Like anything in life, moderation is the key.  So when you go to that holiday party, feel free to taste it all, just don’t go overboard.  You’ll be happy when the new year comes that you haven’t packed on those holiday pounds!

On the exercise side, the common complaint is that there’s never enough time.  Exercise doesn’t have to be 30 minutes spent in a gym.  On the contrary, it can be 5 minute sessions at a time, especially when you are starting out.  The important thing is to get your body moving.  Our slogan this year: start low and go slow.  Start with a program low in difficulty and for a low amount of time, we’ll say 5 minutes.  Build your way up from there, and give yourself treats at milestones along the way. Shoot for 30 or even 60 minutes as an end goal.