5 Tips to Help Your Weight Loss Journey Through Christmas
With MAN v FAT St Helens not kicking off again until 6th January, the festive period can be a challenging time to stay on track. However, with some planning and determination, you can enjoy the season while continuing your weight loss journey. Here are five tips to help you through:
1. Plan Ahead for Festive Meals
The Christmas season often revolves around food, so planning your meals is crucial. Before attending events or preparing meals, decide on your portions and stick to them. Opt for lean proteins like turkey, plenty of vegetables, and smaller portions of roast potatoes or stuffing. If you’re eating out, check menus beforehand and make healthier choices.
Top Tip: Have a healthy snack before heading out to avoid overeating when you arrive.
2. Stay Active, Even in the Cold
While the MAN v FAT league is on a break, it’s important to keep moving. Go for a walk after meals, try a home workout, or even organise a kickabout with friends or family. Physical activity not only burns calories but also helps manage stress during the busy holiday season.
If you’re looking for some extra football games over Christmas, speak with your captains, there’s usually a myriad of ad hoc friendlies organised (via the FuckFest group in the WhatsApp Community). Your captains will help you get into the group if you’re having trouble.
Top Tip: Set a step goal each day and use a fitness tracker or phone app to monitor your progress.
3. Be Mindful of Liquid Calories
Alcohol, festive coffees, and sugary drinks can quickly add up. Enjoy these treats in moderation and balance them with water and healthier options. For example, swap sugary mixers for soda water and limit cream-heavy beverages.
Top Tip: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or have a ‘dry’ day between celebrations.
4. Practice Mindful Eating
Christmas indulgences are part of the season, but you can enjoy them without going overboard. Eat slowly, savour each bite, and stop when you’re full. Pay attention to hunger cues rather than eating out of habit or because food is available.
Top Tip: Use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.
5. Set Realistic Goals and Track Progress
Christmas isn’t the time for crash diets, but maintaining your weight or even a small loss is a fantastic achievement. Weigh yourself regularly to stay accountable and keep track of your progress. Use the MAN v FAT app to log your food, activity, and weight.
Top Tip: Focus on how you feel and celebrate non-scale victories, like resisting an extra mince pie or completing a workout.
Stay Positive and Enjoy the Season
Remember, the festive period is about balance and enjoyment. A few indulgences won’t derail your journey if you stay committed to your overall goals. When the league resumes on 6th January, you’ll be proud to return having maintained or progressed your weight loss.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at MAN v FAT St Helens!
