Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. But, for most of us, it’s also one of the unhealthiest. With mince pies, Christmas dinner and more alcohol than usual, most of us find it tough to stay healthy and in shape around the festive season. If you’re looking to stay fit during the holidays, here are some useful tips to help you out:

Christmas dinner doesn’t have to be unhealthy

Christmas dinner, and all the treats that come along with it adds up to a huge 7,000 calories. We’re not saying that you need to scrimp on Christmas dinner, we’re just reminding you to use the extra nutrientand calorie intake to your advantage.

Christmas dinner is packed with protein, carbs and fat, as well as nutrient-filled green vegetables. Everything you need to build muscle mass and see even quicker growth. Bulking is essential if you’re looking to see gains quicker. You just need to make sure that you hit the gym or keep up your weight training in the days before and after Christmas.

It’s also worth remembering that limiting your fat intake over Christmas can reduce testosterone production meaning when you do get back into the gym, your performance might suffer.

The good news is that turkey is one of the leanest, protein filled meats there is, meaning your Christmas dinner will be sure to provide the protein you need to support muscles.

This is important if you’re looking to bulk and gain muscle fast. It’s also essential if you’re looking to keep your calorie and fat intake low.

For those looking to bulk or keep lean muscle, keeping up your protein intake will prevent muscle atrophy, meaning that your muscle mass will stay the same, even if you’re not in the gym every day of the Christmas break.

If you’re looking to keep your calorie intake to a minimum, protein shakes can help you feel fuller for longer meaning you won’t be tempted to indulge in that extra mince pie.

Stay active

This doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym first thing on Christmas day. But, you shouldn’t be tempted to spend the Christmas weekend in front of the TV either. Fitting a little bit of activity into your break is the easiest way to stay in shape. Sticking to small workouts, targeted at key areas you want to work, or even just taking a walk are good ways to ensure you stay fit and keep the weight off, whilst still allowing your body the recovery time it needs.

Set realistic goals

Setting realistic goals about what you want to achieve during Christmas is essential to keeping you motivated. Be honest with yourself about how active you’ll be during the festive period. Setting realistic health and fitness goals will make you far more likely to see them through.

And, on that note, as a more relaxed time of the year, Christmas is the optimum time to set goals for the year ahead. Use your time at home to set fitness milestones for 2017, making sure they’re right for you.

If you’d like more information on how to stay fit and healthy at Christmas, get in touch with one of our Natural Muscle pros who’ll be happy to help.

Find the perfect gift for the fitness lover in your life with our hand-picked Christmas bundles.