Christmas is coming, and you know what that means: the jollof, fried chicken, small chops, pounded yam, and lotsss of family bonding. Let’s face it; staying in shape at such a time as this could feel like trying to save money for a December wedding. Almost impossible right? 

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with tips that’ll keep you healthy, and help you survive the season without turning into Santa’s doppelganger or missing out on the festive enjoyment.

1. Start with a Plan (And Pray for Discipline)

The first step to staying fit during Christmas is having a plan. It can be as simple as:

• Don’t eat three full meals before lunch.
• Avoid drinking a whole bottle of soda in one sitting.
• Remember that not every Small chops is your Small chops.

Write it down, stick it in your fridge, and don’t forget it.

2. Portion Control Like a Pro

Here’s the tea: you can eat everything you love, but not all at once. Instead of piling your plate with jollof, fried rice, goat meat, and every protein available, take small servings. Think of it as tasting everything without becoming the turkey.
Chew slowly and savor every bite. Remember, the goal is to taste Christmas, not inhale it.
Bonus tip: Use the smallest plate available. If anyone asks why you’re eating off a saucer, tell them it’s an aesthetic choice. (LOL)

3. Turn Chores Into Cardio

Think of all those Christmas errands as your personal boot camp. Sweeping the house before visitors come? That’s your warm-up. Running to the market five times because you keep “remembering” things? Interval training. Dancing to “Buga” while wrapping gifts? Full-body workout! Stay active and you’ll burn calories while keeping everyone happy.Who needs a gym when you have Christmas chores? 

To crown it all, you can even organize a Christmas dance-off with your family. Burn calories and prove you’re the Kaffy of the family.

3. Drink Water Like You’re in the Desert

Sometimes, when you think you’re hungry, you’re just thirsty. But during Christmas, it’s easy to forget water exists. Instead of reaching for another sugary drink, gulp down a glass of water. If anyone laughs at you, remind them that water doesn’t judge your waistline. Stay hydrated with good ol’ water. It helps curb hunger and balances out all that Christmas indulgence. Plus, if you’re drinking water, there’s less room for those fattening cocktail experiments.

Pro tip: Carry a bottle of water everywhere. It doubles as a weapon for fighting off plate-piling aunties.

4. Outsmart the Snack Table

The snack table is a war zone of temptation; chin chin, cookies, chocolates, and meat pies sent from heaven. Approach it like a tactical mission:

• Take one snack and walk away.
• Distract yourself with small talk (even if it’s with that uncle who won’t stop talking about politics).
• Stand far enough that the snack table looks blurry in your peripheral vision.

  
  
  

5. Embrace the Art of Distraction

When you’re done eating but still tempted to grab more, distract yourself. Play games, take pictures, or volunteer to help in the kitchen (where you can burn calories dodging hot oil). Sometimes, you’re not hungry, you’re just bored.

6. Remind Yourself that Christmas Lasts One Day, Not a Month

The real Christmas feast is one day, maybe two if you count Boxing Day leftovers. Don’t stretch it into a 30-day eating marathon. Moderation is key, unless you want your January goals to start with “lose December weight.” 

7. Say No to Food Guilt (and Yes to Balance)

Staying in shape during Christmas isn’t about being perfect. It’s about finding the sweet spot between living your best life and fitting into your jeans. Eat, laugh, and enjoy the season, but remember: no food tastes as good as balance feels.
But! Let’s be real: you’re probably going to eat more than usual because It’s Christmas, So, for every indulgent meal, how about you throw in a healthy one?. And if you overdo it? Laugh it off, dance it off, and remember that January gyms exist for a reason.

Bonus Tip: Get Your Finances in Shape Too!

Just like you plan your meals and workouts during the holidays, it’s also the perfect time to think about your financial fitness. Why not start investing in stocks this Christmas?

Think of it this way: while your favorite Christmas meal will be gone by January 1st, your stock investments could grow long after the holidays. Start small, choose companies you believe in, and watch your portfolio flourish over time.

Remember, the earlier you start, the bigger the benefits. So, while you’re planning your family’s Christmas feast, take a moment to set yourself up for financial success too. After all, a well-fed investment account is the gift that keeps on giving right?

Merry Christmas and happy munching!