It is that time to start getting the festivities on. Thanksgiving with turkey and maybe some pie.  In December the eggnog, cookies etc. New Years Eve going to parties eating food, maybe a few drinks. It is pretty much ongoing through the end of the year! How does one keep the body from going into the flab zone? You can start with your own little private gym…your kitchen! Personally I take on a little less guilt during the holidays, if I keep the exercise going. During our journey we will have to push ourselves a bit. Some ideas while you are cooking some of those tasty holiday treats:

Squat for Pans and Pots-When it’s time to pull out the pans and pots under the kitchen counter, squat down next to the pot instead of bending over. This is exercise is great for strengthening the arms and legs. Grab the pot with two hands and hold it close to the body. Before standing, take a deep inhale. On the exhale, pull in the belly and straighten the legs. Try not to use the hands to assist on the way up. Repeat this exercise while waiting for something to heat up.

Counter Push Ups-A common kitchen move of stirring is good one for the arms, but there’s another exercise that can bring on some results for the arms. Put the hands on the kitchen counter feet away from the counter, like a “push-up.” Keeping the body in one line from toes to the head, keep the chin down, head back, and pull in the belly button. Begin the push up, bend the arms and touch the chest to the counter. Do 10 reps, rest, and then do 10 more.

With so much time spent in the kitchen, maybe spice it up a bit with an exercise or two?

Please share if you have any exercises to add! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

A good balance between exercise and food intake is important, as this helps to maintain a healthy body weight.