ONU Professor Scott Swanson: “This is probably the worst time of year to begin any kind of a workout program or try to lose weight."

By Monty Siekerman
"For those being realistic, fitness should take a break over the holidays," says ONU Prof. Scott Swanson. “This is probably the worst time of year to begin any kind of a workout program or try to lose weight,” according to Swanson, associate professor of exercise physiology.

“Holiday gatherings mean high-fat, high-calorie foods," he said. "Combine that with the stress of the season caused by hectic schedules, family gatherings, and the need for comfort food, and it is a recipe for failure.”

Instead, Swanson offers some practical tips for maintaining a realistic level of fitness over the holidays and meeting new year’s resolutions.

Holiday Eating Tips:

·      Sample, do not graze. “Instead of avoiding unhealthy foods, which is difficult to do, avoid indulging. Have a spoonful of food – enough to satisfy your initial craving – then move on.
·      Go with a full stomach. “Eat before attending parties. This will reduce the urge to overeat.
·      Keep a drink in hand. “To lessen the chance of people freshening your cup, do not drink the entire cup of holiday cheer. There are a lot of calories in egg nog and alcoholic beverages.”

Maintaining New Year’s Fitness Resolutions:

·      Start slowly. “Do not overdo it starting out. I always say you will see a lot of new faces in the gym in January, but, come February, it will look like old times. Start slowly and not too intense. Find a routine you can maintain and build upon. It is a marathon and not a sprint. Fitness routines are lifestyle habits.”
·      You are not getting any younger. “Realize you cannot go at the same level you did five years ago. You are not the same person, and this is not the same time in your life. Adjust your workout regimen accordingly.”
·      Make exercise a priority. “Scheduled your workouts as you would other appointments. You have to say ‘no’ to other conflicts.”
·      Try the buddy system. “Find a workout partner. It is important to have someone who can cheer you on and share discouragement with you. Plus, on days you do not feel like working out, you will not want to let down the other person.”
·      Be consistent. “Find a time of day that best works for you, whether it is morning, at lunch or in the evening. Make it a habit.”