Tips for Staying on Track with Your Fitness Goals During Thanksgiving from a Personal Trainer in Phoenix

Hi everyone! Cara Barnes here, a personal trainer in Phoenix at Physiques Gym and someone who has always walked the line between my love for food and my commitment to health and fitness. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tips to help keep my balance during the holidays, and I’m excited to share them with you.

First and foremost, I believe in fully enjoying the holidays. If you’re disciplined during the rest of the year, you deserve to indulge guilt-free. However, it’s also easy to go overboard and slip off track. Thanksgiving, with its generous feasts, is especially tempting. Here are some strategies I’ve developed that can help you stay on course without sacrificing the joy of the holiday.

1. Plan Ahead

Set Realistic Expectations:

Decide what you want to achieve over the holiday. Maybe it’s maintaining your current weight, enjoying a few treats without excess, or sticking to a workout routine. By setting realistic goals, you can relax without feeling guilty.

Plan Your Meals:

If you’re hosting, you have control over the menu, so include options like roasted veggies, fresh salads, or lighter desserts to ensure there are balanced choices available. If you’re contributing, offer to bring something healthy—it’ll help you stay on track and may inspire others!

2. Focus on Portion Control

Prioritize Protein:

Start your plate with a protein-rich option. This can help keep you fuller longer. After you’ve eaten your protein, enjoy the rest of the meal mindfully, including the carbs and delicious holiday favorites.

Mindful Eating:

Rather than piling your plate, focus on sampling a variety of flavors in smaller portions. Slow down, savor each bite, and listen to your body’s hunger signals. This helps you enjoy the meal without overeating.

Choose Your Indulgences:

Select the treats you love most and skip the rest. Enjoy them thoroughly, without guilt—it’s all about balance.

3. Stay Active

Morning Workouts:

Begin the day with a quick workout, whether it’s a HIIT session, a walk, or light stretching. This not only burns calories but also gives you a mood boost for the day ahead.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration helps manage hunger, prevents overeating, and is especially important if you’ll be indulging in rich foods or alcohol.

5. Avoid the ‘All-or-Nothing’ Mentality

Perfection isn’t the goal! Don’t let one slip-up make you abandon your goals entirely. A single indulgent meal or day won’t derail your progress. Allow yourself to enjoy, then get back on track.

Conclusion

Follow these tips from a personal trainer in Phoenix so you can enjoy your holiday and minimize your guilt! Most importantly, remember, this is a holiday! NOT A HOLIWEEEK! Enjoy your holiday but get right back on your plan the following day.

Thanksgiving is about balance. It’s a time to enjoy loved ones and celebrate with delicious food. With a mindful approach, you can savor the holiday while staying aligned with your fitness goals. Enjoy the festivities to the fullest—Happy Thanksgiving!

At Physiques Gym, we help you turn your goals into actionable plans! Our professional personal trainers have many years of experience. Our training is tailored specifically for each individual client’s needs. We provide more than just training; we also offer advice on nutrition and healthy habits so our clients can reach their goals faster!

So what are you waiting for? Contact us today and get ready to transform your life with professional personal training at Physiques Gym!

Cara Barnes, Personal Trainer and Fitness Coach at Physiques Gym