As much as I believe that December is just as good a time as any of get fit and burn fat I’m also realistic enough to know that for most people this month is about damage limitation. In my experience it’s not just the few days over Christmas where people overindulge, it’s the few weeks leading up to it as well! This is obviously a bit of a problem, because whilst there’s only so much damage you can do over the course of a few days, but A LOT of damage can be done over the course of a few weeks.

Here are my top 3 tips to avoid gaining weight this December;

1/ Avoid the nibbles. There a lots of parties, lunches, dinners, drinks etc. at this time of year. Of course you want to treat yourself a bit, but steer clear of the ‘nibbles’ as much as possible. By nibbles i mean stuff like crisps, dips, mice pies etc. For example most mince pies are 300/350 each! Add a bit of cream and you’re up at 500! That’s a main meal! So be aware of these high calorie, un-filling snacks and steer clear when possible.

2/ 2 drinks at a time. That sounds good doesn’t it! Well it’s not quite what you think I’m afraid. Whether you’re at home or out and have an alcoholic drink, make yourself drink a glass of water for every glass of booze you have. This will slow your drinking and help to stop you getting dehydrated and getting cravings.

3/ Work it off! Never is exercise more important that when your consuming more calories. If you’re taking in say 200 extra calories a day on average, how can you balance it out? BURN IT OFF! 15/20 minutes depending on your fitness level could burn 200 calories easily. So have a look at some of the workouts on this blog for some great calorie burning workouts.

Today’s Takeaway – December doesn’t have to mean let yourself go until the New Year. Follow these 3 simple steps and you will avoid weight gain this holiday season.