The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, aaaand…busy schedules.
Between family gatherings, work events, endless to-do lists, and (let’s be honest) a few too many helpings of mashed potatoes, staying motivated to hit the gym can feel like an impossible feat. But keeping up with fitness can make all the difference in how we feel, helping us manage stress, boost our energy, and feel our best through all the chaos. Let’s explore some of the biggest hurdles to staying on track during Thanksgiving and Christmas—and how we at the Alexandria Area YMCA are here to help you overcome them!
What are Some Challenges We Face?
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Jam-Packed Schedules: Holiday parties, shopping, travel, kids’ holiday events… the list goes on. When schedules get packed, squeezing in a workout can feel like the last thing you have time for.
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Tempting Treats Everywhere: The holidays are all about indulging, and it’s perfectly okay to enjoy those festive treats! But it can be easy to fall into a food coma, which might make skipping the gym even more tempting.
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Cold Weather Blues: Let’s face it—stepping out into the Minnesota cold to go anywhere, even the gym, isn’t always appealing. You have to start your car, scrape your windshields, and say "Dang, it's cold," as you sit in your driver's seat every time. It’s easy to let chilly days convince us to stay cozy at home.
How to Stay Motivated and Keep Moving
We're here to help you push past these holiday hurdles! The YMCA has resources, support, and the community you need to stay active—plus a few special options to make fitting in fitness easier and more fun.
- Join a Group Exercise Class (For Free): Did you know all our group exercise classes are free with your membership? Whether you’re into yoga, cycling, or strength training, our classes are designed to keep you moving and having fun. Group classes are not only a great workout but also a chance to connect with other community members. Need extra accountability? Bring a friend or family member along for the class—it’s always more fun with a workout buddy!
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Try Personal Training for a Motivational Boost: If staying motivated on your own is tough, consider personal training. Our certified trainers at the YMCA can tailor a plan just for you, helping you stay on track and giving you that extra push when you need it most. Think of your trainer as your holiday season cheerleader, keeping you focused on your goals even when holiday stress kicks in. For a more affordable option, try one of our Small Group Training sessions. These unique training programs allow you to work with a certified trainer with the support of a small group.
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Use Fitness on Demand for Workouts on Your Schedule: Finding time to fit in a workout, especially during the holidays, can be tough. With Fitness on Demand, you don’t have to worry! Fitness on Demand in Studio A is available to you anytime, so you can participate in a guided workout whenever it suits your schedule. From cardio and strength to flexibility and dance, you’ll find something for every mood and fitness level. It’s a great way to stay active if you’re not able to make it to a scheduled class.
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Set Small, Realistic Goals: Sometimes big goals can feel overwhelming during the busy holiday season, so try setting small, achievable goals. Aim for two or three workouts per week instead of every day, or set a goal to try one new class each week. Small wins will help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.
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Celebrate Your Wins: Don’t forget to give yourself credit for sticking with your routine. Staying active through the holidays is no small feat! Whether you’ve attended more classes, tried something new, or simply kept moving, celebrate those wins. And remember, we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way.
The holidays may bring busy schedules, but the Alexandria Area YMCA is here to make your health and wellness a priority. Our team is ready to help you make this season one where you stay energized, connected, and feeling great. So, bundle up, bring a friend, and come build a healthier mind, body and spirit with us at the Y.