Surviving the Silly Season: Smart Strategies to Stay Active Over the Holidays

From work parties to family feasts and last-minute shopping trips — the festive season can feel like a whirlwind. Routines get messy, stress levels spike, and exercise often becomes the first thing to drop off the to-do list. But staying active doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the fun of the holidays.

As an Exercise Physiologist, I believe movement should make your life better — not busier. Here’s how to keep active, energised, and empowered right through Christmas (without missing a single mince pie):

Tamika Hassum, 10 Dec 25

Accredited Exercise Physiologist

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⭐ 1. Treat Movement Like a Gift to Yourself

Instead of viewing exercise as another chore, see it as a chance to recharge. A 15-minute stretch or a walk with a friend can calm your nervous system, boost mood-lifting endorphins, and provide a moment to breathe amidst the festivities.

Try this:

Morning mobility → 5–10 minutes to wake up the body
2-minute movement breaks → squats while the kettle boils, some stair climbs, a quick dance between tasks

Little bouts really do add up!

⭐ 2. Mark It in Your Calendar

If it’s scheduled, it’s real. Before December gets busy, plan:

A weekly supervised class
A Sunday morning walk with a friend
A home program routine you can do anywhere

Treat these like non-negotiable appointments — just as important as the Christmas ham.

⭐ 3. Build Exercise Into Festivities

You don’t need a gym to stay active! Make movement part of the fun:

Pre-lunch family walk (scavenger hunt for kids!)
Backyard cricket or a beach paddle-ball match
Dance-offs while cooking
Christmas-light neighbourhood stroll

Movement should feel joyful — not like punishment.

⭐ 4. Ditch the All-or-Nothing Mindset

Health isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistency. One big lunch or skipped workout doesn’t undo your progress.
A few phrases to try when the social calendar gets busy:

“I’d love dessert — I’ll start with a smaller slice.”
“Let’s catch up with a walk instead of another coffee.”
“One glass of bubbles is perfect for me tonight.”

Small choices protect your wellbeing and your joy.

This Season, Choose What Feels Good

Movement is one of the best gifts you can give yourself:
✨ More energy
✨ Improved mood
✨ Better sleep
✨ Less stress
✨ Stronger immunity

So whether you’re dancing in the kitchen or heading out for a sunrise swim — know that every step, stretch, and silly festive shuffle counts!