As the the festive period comes to an end, so does the over indulging and the realisation (for me anyway) that the scales are not lying, and healthier habits need to be reinstated.
Who knew that the copious amounts of cheese, chocolate and champagne would lead to an extra 7kg.
I’m fine, honestly, it’s come in handy during the windy weather that I haven’t been blown over – a useful ballast some may say.
Healthy habits
It’s January, the weathers a bit rubbish and we are all skint. However, maybe it is time to renew that gym membership, get to the swimming pool (no excuse for you southerners, your pool is back up and running).
But we also have so many lovely local gyms, nutritionists and personal trainers on Island that can help out.
The experts
With that in mind, sports nutrition experts, from Bulk.com have offered some easy tips to implement for the new year.
The expert says: “It can be easy to get wrapped up in the festive cheer and celebrations, but for those looking to kick unhealthy habits once the festivities have ended, there are some simple and easy ways to get you feeling your best self again.
“There are plenty of benefits to taking a short break and treating yourself over the Christmas holiday, however many of us are guilty of continuing these habits after the holidays have ended.
Sports Nutrition Expert, from Bulk.com
To help avoid falling into an unhealthy routine post-Christmas, the expert has identified the key habits to watch out for.
Fitness and nutrition tips
- Walk everywhere
Walking is arguably the simplest and cheapest exercise available to us all.
Walking has many benefits to your health: it builds stamina, burns excess calories, and is great for a healthy heart.
Experts say that a brisk walking pace is best for your fitness – making this a simple and effective way to feel healthier.
- Drink less alcohol
You guys crack on with this one – I shan’t be participating.
But the expert says: It can be difficult to reduce the amount of alcohol we consume, but it’s crucially important if you want to improve your health.
An effective strategy for cutting back on alcohol intake is substituting alcoholic drinks with alcohol-free alternatives.
- Fill up on vegetables
Vegetables are generally much bulkier and less calorie-dense than other foods, they’re also full of essential fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
Filling up your plate with plenty of vegetables can be an easy way to control your calorie intake without feeling like you’re eating less.
It may be worth adding – potatoes (aka chips, the best food to grace the planet) aren’t the most ideal healthy option – well they are, but in moderation.
- Avoid secret sugars
Sucrose, fructose, and dextrose are all scientific names for different types of sugar, easily missed by the undiscerning consumer.
You might also see high-fructose corn syrup, barley malt, and molasses hidden in the ingredients list, which are all just sugars in a different form.
- Start slowly with exercise – everything in moderation!
The hardest part of exercising regularly is often not getting started but having the strength to maintain a regular routine.
This is often due to aches and pains, which can be much worse after taking a Christmas break.
Start your exercise plan with a frank and honest assessment of your fitness to avoid injuring yourself.
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