Movement

Centr Team

How to slay the 6 biggest holiday challenges

2. Maintaining control when all the treats are on offer

“My biggest challenge with food during the holiday season is staying balanced when there are so many indulgent options around,” says HILIT hero Alexz Parvi.

We hear that! So what’s the answer? All of our experts agree on one thing when it comes to holiday eating: portion control is key.

“We are surrounded by food in the holiday season. It is endless,” says Luke. “Be honest with yourself: you are going to try that little bit of chocolate, or that little bit of ice cream. I can’t stop myself from doing it!”

“So this is my little holiday hack. I let myself try these little bits and pieces, but it’s one plate and don’t overload the plate. It’s all about balance. It’s the holiday season, you want to have fun, just don’t overdo it.”

Another trick both Alexz and strength specialist Ingrid Clay use is having a light snack before a holiday party.

“I like to have a small protein-rich snack like nuts, a plant-based protein shake or hummus and veggies before heading to any event,” explains Ingrid. “That way it curbs the cravings, stops me from overeating, and it helps me to make healthier decisions when surrounded by very indulgent holiday treats.”

Try this: Before heading to the next event in your calendar, set yourself up for success with a Banana Peanut Butter Snack Smoothie.

3. Staying calm amid the holiday chaos

They don’t call it the festive season for nothing, but we all have our limits. Take a cue from Alexz and remember it’s okay to knock back an invitation or two.

“The biggest mental struggle for me during the holiday season is feeling overwhelmed by the busyness and constant social activities,” Alexz says. “Setting boundaries and allowing myself to say ‘no’ to certain commitments helps me stay grounded and protect my mental well-being.”

“I also make sure to carve out time for myself, whether it’s through a quiet morning walk, meditation or journaling.”

Try this: Big day of festivities ahead? Prep your head with Alexz’s Good Morning Affirmations.

4. Getting a workout done without going to the gym

Alexz’s favorite piece of workout equipment during the holiday season makes a whole lot of sense when you’re on the move: resistance bands.

“They’re lightweight, portable and versatile – I can take them anywhere,” says our queen of the burn. “Plus, they’re great for both strength training and mobility work, which helps me stay active without needing a lot of space or heavy equipment.”

While Alexz is keeping it portable, Luke is going big in his home gym.

“My favorite piece of equipment would have to be the Centr Half Rack,” Luke says. “It’s a squat rack, it’s a chin-up bar, you can set it up as a bench press station… It is a one-stop shop when it comes to strength training and that’s why I like it – because I wanna be strong and big these holidays.”

Try this: Looking for a quick session on the road? Unpack your resistance band and hit play on Alexz’s 10-minute No-jump Cardio workout.

5. Keeping a cap on your drinking

Like Luke, you probably love socializing with friends or going to dinner and having a few drinks. “Who doesn’t?” says Luke. “It’s good fun, it’s the holidays!”

But you may also be concerned at how alcohol consumption can add up as you swing from office party to family gathering and everything else in between. Luke has two tips to help you stay in control and feel better throughout the season.

“First, try doing a day on and a day off with the alcohol,” says Luke. “You’ll find that the days off from drinking, you’ll feel fresher and better able to train. Then there’s a knock on effect: when you train better, you’ll feel better, you’ll make better food decisions, and you’ll probably make better alcohol decisions – not drinking so many of those cocktails!”

And that brings Luke to his second tip.

“Cocktails are very sugary and high in calories, so I would step away from the cocktails and try neater drinks – for example a vodka soda instead of a margarita. If you’re a beer drinker, I’m a big fan of the low-carb and gluten-free beer options you can find now, too.”

Try this: Hit up our ultimate mocktail collection when you’re taking a day off alcohol, but still want something fun to share with your friends.

6. Avoiding meltdowns in the kitchen

If you’re entertaining family or friends, chances are you’re going to spend a good chunk of your holidays in the kitchen. Our nutrition expert Angie Asche’s 5-step process will help to make it as painless as possible.

• Take advantage of pre-cut vegetables to save yourself time.

• Batch cook – doubling up on the recipe now will mean leftovers and less cooking during the week.

• Make simple substitutions, like using higher protein, lower saturated fat options – e.g. Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

• Add nutrient-dense plant foods into, on top of or as sides for your holiday dishes to increase fiber, vitamins and minerals.

• Prioritize protein – this will keep everyone feeling full and satisfied.

Try this: If you do overindulge, it’s not the end of the world. Check out Angie's advice on what to do when you’ve eaten too much.