At this time of the year the grey clouds persist longer over
Bluff Park, which snuggles up to the
Lawn Parker, an experienced personal trainer, is here preparing
his client for the holiday season. His transition from combat training in the
Marines to fitness instructor was an easy transition 13 years ago.
With all of the temptations around to indulge in, Parker's
client list, mostly single and independent women with busy schedules, swells
come October.
He shares tips and busts myths on how to stay healthy, happy
and light.
1. Tis the Season of Sabotage
As the year comes to a close, people like to relax. If this
also includes what they are eating, it can become the biggest way to sabotage a
weight management plan.
"The idea of eating whatever I want and then working
out really hard after by burning it off is not going to happen. At this time of year you are eating foods that
are high in saturated fats, which store quickly," he said. "If you take away a consistent
exercise program, your cardiovascular heart rate will decrease 20 percent. Both
of these together make it harder to come back."
2. The Silent Killer is the Sauce
The one thing that increases the number of calories the
fastest is the sauce. Whether it is the
gravy on the turkey or the dressing on the salad, it is your worst enemy.
Substitute fresh lemon juice for salad dressing and skip the
gravy.
3. Smaller Portions go a Long
Way
"Feed yourself like a kid. Ball up your fist and divide
it out with food on a dish. You are going to eat a couple plates throughout the
day," he advises.
Grab the smaller plate and load it with little portions.
4. The Best Way is Naked
Your turkey that is, eat it skinless not FRIED!
"The whole white meat versus dark meat is like a 5
calorie difference. Skinless to not skinless meat is a substantial calorie
difference," said Parker.
5. Be Ready for any Activity
The more time you spend away from the food, the easier it is
to resist eating. Take a pair of clothes and tennis shoes with you if are
traveling. Go out for a walk or play a game (e.g. basketball) with family
members.
"Some gyms offer discounted day passes on Thanksgiving
and Christmas Day," he said.
Stay away from those and gobble on leafy greens, steamed
veggies, and assorted fruit. Snack organic with kale chips and roasted pumpkin
seeds.
If you cannot resist the traditional holiday tamale then do
your self a favor and cut it in half. Eat one half and then the other half
later in the day.
His final piece of advice is that you are more likely to
feel better about yourself when you are consistently working out. The tough
choices get easier and the chance of catching the holiday blues will decrease.
As the sun and temperature starts to drop, Parker joins in
on his client's jog.
"You got to keep that body temperature up!"
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