Ways to Keep Active Over Christmas

It’s easy over Christmas to let your activity levels slip and in some ways, why shouldn’t you? Christmas (where possible) should be about rest and recuperation. However, some of us still like to stay fairly active over the Christmas period. For many, it’s a good way to retain their mental well-being as well as their physical fitness. Not to mention, some people start to sense that dreaded cabin fever feeling if they don’t leave the house and move their body. 

So, here’s a list of ideas to help keep you active over the yuletide:

• How about a traditional Boxing Day stroll or New Years Day walk or more in-between if you fancy? Christmas is a great time of year to take the time to venture somewhere new that you haven’t explored before, but have never found the time to do so. Even better, meet up with friends or family for your walk. And if possible, a walk in nature is even better for your wellbeing as we have talked about in the past. Have a look at our self-guided walks for some suggested walks.
• If it’s not too icy, what about a cycle ride? Dust off your bike, pop on your helmet and take a ride around your local area. It really is that easy. Have a look at our self guided routes for ideas. 
• If you’re catching the bus or train somewhere, why not get off a stop early and walk the rest of the way? Even the smallest amount of walking is better than nothing and the time in the fresh air could really make a difference to how you’re feeling.
• Similarly, if you’re tempted to drive into town or to pop to the supermarket to pick up some more Baileys/cheese/After Eights, why not leave the car at home and walk or cycle there?
• Family Disco! Whack on a bit of Shakin’ Stevens or Mariah or indeed The Pogues and get the whole family up from the sofa and do a bit of moving ‘n’ grooving around your living room. It doesn’t matter how good or how bad the dancing is- as long as you’re moving your body. We can’t possibly comment if Mulled Wine will help the dancing in any way.
• Games Night! There’s lots of family games that can get you out of your seats. Try Charades or Twister or even musical chairs/statues. Get that body moving even if it is in the silliest of ways.
• Stand-up! Honestly, if you’ve been glued to your sofa all day and can’t face leaving the house, try just making sure you stand up every half an hour. And if possible, just walk around your home for a couple of minutes. If you have to make a lot of phone calls over Christmas try doing each one standing up. It all helps. 
• Snow fun! If we’re lucky enough to get any snow- get out there and build a snowman or have a snowball fight or grab your sledge and whizz down a hill! It doesn’t matter how old you are, you’re never too old to have fun in the snow.
• Have a look at the 20 minute movement website for more ideas that encourage just -you’ve guessed it- 20 minutes of activity a day. There might be something there that you can fit into your yuletide days. And it might inspire you to continue this daily movement into the new year.

Most importantly, have a fantastic Christmas. We’ll see you all in 2024!