STAYING FIT IN DECEMBER: A MUM’S GUIDE TO MOVING THROUGH THE FESTIVE SEASON

December is here—the month of mince pies, glittering lights, and endless to-do lists. As a 44-year-old mum of two (my son is 10 and my daughter is 4), I know the drill. There’s decorating to do, presents to wrap, school plays to attend, and of course, the endless snacks and mulled wine calling my name. On top of all that, I’m a group fitness instructor, so you’d think staying active in December would be second nature. Spoiler alert: It’s not.

Let’s face it, staying fit in December can feel like trying to keep a snowman from melting in the sun—it’s tricky but not impossible. Whether you’re looking to maintain your routine, jumpstart a new one, or just avoid turning into a Christmas pudding, this guide is for you.

Why Bother Staying Fit in December?

You might be tempted to shelve your workout routine until January, but hear me out. Staying active in December has some serious perks:

1. Energy Boost: Tired from late-night wrapping sessions? Exercise gives you energy to power through your day.

2. Stress Relief: Between tantrums in the toy aisle (my kids, not me… usually) and juggling family plans, working out is the ultimate mood booster.

3. No January Guilt: Starting the year strong feels way better than playing catch-up.

4. Counteracting the Treats: Let’s be real—those Christmas cookies aren’t going to eat themselves, and that’s fine. Staying active lets you enjoy them guilt-free.

Acknowledge the Chaos

December is busy. Between my daughter practising her Santa songs and my son demanding yet another viewing of Elf, my schedule is jam-packed. Instead of beating myself up for missing a workout, I focus on squeezing in short, effective sessions. A little bit of movement is better than none at all.

Festive Fitness Challenges

The Advent Workout Calendar

Swap chocolate for challenges! Each day, commit to a mini workout:

• Day 1: 20 squats

• Day 2: 10 push-ups

• Day 3: A 15-minute brisk walk

12 Days of Fitness

Start with one exercise on Day 1, then add another each day:

• Day 1: 10 jumping jacks

• Day 2: 10 jumping jacks + 15 crunches

• Day 3: Add a plank hold

It’s like singing “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” but instead of partridges and pear trees, you get toned arms and a stronger core.

Workouts You Can Do Anytime, Anywhere

With a 4-year-old and a 10-year-old, my home is a circus, and I often find myself fitting workouts into pockets of chaos. Here are my go-tos:

1. The Living Room Dance Party

Put on your favourite holiday playlist and dance like no one’s watching (except your kids, who will totally judge you).

2. Staircase Intervals

Running up and down the stairs while shouting, “Where did I hide that gift?!” counts as cardio, right?

3. 5-Minute Circuits

Set a timer and go:

• 10 squats

• 10 push-ups (on your knees if needed)

• 10 burpees

Repeat as many times as you can before the timer dings or a child yells, “Muuuum!”

Get Creative With Family Fitness

The holidays are all about family time, so why not make fitness a group activity?

1. Winter Walks

Bundle up and go for a family stroll to see Christmas lights. It’s magical, and you’ll hit your step count without even noticing.

2. Snowball Fights

If you’re lucky enough to have snow, a good old-fashioned snowball fight is a workout in disguise.

3. Obstacle Course

Create a mini obstacle course in the backyard or living room. Bonus: it keeps the kids entertained while you sneak in some exercise.

Staying Active as a Fitness Instructor

As a group fitness instructor, December can be hit or miss. Some clients are all-in, determined to stay fit before the New Year, while others vanish until January. For me, this time of year is about keeping the energy high and the workouts fun.

Holiday-Themed Classes

I love adding a festive twist to my sessions. Think circuits with names like “Reindeer Run” or “Santa’s Sleigh Push.” Cheesy? Absolutely. But it gets people smiling and moving, which is the goal.

Flexible Scheduling

With holiday madness in full swing, I offer shorter, high-intensity classes that fit into busy schedules. A 30-minute Boogie Bounce Revolution session? Perfect!

Encouragement is Key

It’s easy to let fitness slide during December, so I remind my clients (and myself!) that every little bit counts. Even showing up to class is a win.

Navigating Holiday Temptations

December is filled with indulgences, and that’s okay. Here’s how I approach it:

1. Portion Control

I enjoy everything but try not to go overboard. Yes to the mince pie, but maybe not three.

2. Hydrate

Staying hydrated keeps cravings in check and helps me avoid the dreaded mulled wine hangover.

3. Eat Before Events

I snack on something healthy before heading to parties so I’m not ravenous when faced with a buffet of cheese and crackers.

Overcoming Common December Excuses

“I Don’t Have Time”

Make fitness a priority by scheduling it like any other appointment. Even 10 minutes is better than nothing.

“I’m Too Tired”

Exercise actually gives you energy, so even a short workout can leave you feeling more awake.

“It’s Too Cold”

Invest in some warm workout gear and embrace the chilly weather—it’s invigorating! Or stay cosy indoors with a home workout.

Planning Ahead

December flies by, so planning is crucial.

1. Block Out Workout Time

Look at your calendar and pick times to exercise. Treat these as non-negotiable.

2. Pack Your Bag

If you’re heading to the gym, pack your gear the night before to make mornings easier.

3. Have a Backup Plan

If something derails your workout, don’t sweat it. A quick walk or some stretching is still a win.

Staying Motivated

1. Set Mini Goals

Instead of “lose weight,” aim for something specific, like “work out three times a week.”

2. Reward Yourself

Treat yourself to a new fitness gadget or cosy leggings for sticking to your routine.

3. Find a Fitness Buddy

Working out with a friend keeps you accountable and makes exercise more fun.

The Long-Term Benefits

By staying active in December, you’re setting yourself up for success in January and beyond. Regular exercise:

• Boosts energy levels

• Improves mental health

• Strengthens your immune system

Plus, you’ll feel accomplished heading into the new year, knowing you didn’t let the holidays derail your fitness journey.

A Sample December Fitness Plan

Here’s a simple, festive workout plan to keep you moving:

Week 1: Holiday Hustle

• Monday: 20-minute HIIT session

• Wednesday: Family walk to see Christmas lights

• Friday: Strength training at home (squats, lunges, push-ups)

Week 2: Winter Fun

• Tuesday: Yoga or Pilates

• Thursday: Dance workout to holiday tunes

• Saturday: Outdoor activity (sledging, ice skating, or brisk walk)

Week 3: Christmas Countdown

• Monday: 10-minute circuit (jumping jacks, burpees, planks)

• Wednesday: Stretching or gentle yoga

• Friday: Quick jog or walk

Week 4: New Year, New Energy

• Tuesday: Full-body workout

• Thursday: Family walk or hike

• Saturday: Rest day

Final Thoughts

December is a magical, messy, and often exhausting month. But staying active doesn’t have to be another chore on your already long list. It can be a joyful way to relieve stress, spend time with loved ones, and set yourself up for a healthier, happier new year.

So, whether you’re doing squats while wrapping presents or dancing with the kids to Mariah Carey, remember this: fitness isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, moving your body, and making yourself a priority—even during the busiest time of year.

Here’s to a fit and fabulous festive season! 🎄