Holiday fitness

Want to avoid the average 0.5 kilos most people gain over the holiday season? Health experts have some advice. Read on to know more.

Want to avoid the average 0.5 kilos most people gain over the holiday season? Health experts have some advice. Work out in short bursts. And don’t loiter near the food at parties.

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While you may be trading your workouts for gift shopping and late-night revelling, Michael Berry, a health expert, recommends exercising in quick bursts to boost heart rate and metabolism throughout the day. Try taking (or running) the steps instead of the elevator or talking a brisk walk at lunchtime. Or, opt for a five-minute walk every 30 minutes to burn some calories.

“There are a lot of different ways to try to increase your levels of physical activity in your daily routines,” Berry says. “During the holidays, you may be taking in extra calories and having less time for exercise, so it’s probably more important to add these types of activities daily. Remember, 500 calories can mean five miles (eight kilometres) of running.”

Shaving off sugary, fatty drinks from your holiday routine also works, say dieticians.