With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, exercise may be the last thing on your mind, but a workout is just what the doctor ordered! A good dose of exercise can help you de-stress, prevent holiday weight gain, and may even chase away the “holiday blues.” We know you’re busy planning, shopping, and avoiding those festive treats at the office, so here are four workouts that will give you the most “bang for your buck” this holiday season.
#1 HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)
High Intensity Interval Training (or HIIT) consists of short, intense bursts of activity followed by brief rest periods. This method is one of the best ways to burn calories, build lean muscle, and boost your metabolism. Plus, HIIT workouts deliver amazing results in minimal time, making them perfect for this hectic season. Check out VHP’s “HIIT” and “Low-Impact Cardio/Strength Fusion” classes!
#2 Kickboxing/Boxing
Martial arts-inspired workouts, such as kickboxing and boxing, are great for burning calories and punching away holiday stress. These heart-pumping workouts combine martial arts-inspired movements (such as punches and kicks) with body sculpting exercises (such as squats and lunges), making them efficient and effective. After a martial arts-inspired workout, you’re sure to feel strong, relaxed, and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way!
#3 Yoga
Speaking of holiday stress, yoga is a great way to unwind. Yoga has been shown to reduce stress, calm the mind, and even improve focus. Who doesn’t need a sharper mind this time of year? Yoga also offers many health benefits, such as better heart health, circulation, and strength, just to name a few. Best of all, yoga can help you be more mindful this holiday season, allowing you to enjoy precious moments and make healthier food choices. VHP offers live yoga classes, such as “Gentle Vinyasa Yoga” and “Mindful Meditation,” to help you stay healthy and relaxed.
#4 Walking
When all else fails, hit the pavement! Walking can help maintain your weight, strengthen your bones, improve balance and coordination, and may even help prevent or manage symptoms of heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Walking is also a simple, intuitive form of exercise that requires no equipment. If the weather is too frightful for an outdoor walk, join one VHP’s live cardio workouts, such as our “Beginner Treadmill Walking Workout” or “Cardio Blast” classes.
Remember, a little exercise is always better than none, so lace up your shoes and keep moving this holiday season. Take some time to nourish your health. We promise it will make your December even merrier!
