As the Christmas season approaches in less than two weeks, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of indulging in unhealthy habits and neglecting your regular routine. However, with a bit of planning, you can still enjoy the festivities without compromising your health and fitness goals. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle during the holidays:

1, Consider different forms of fitness to what you would usually do. Instead of hitting the Front Street pubs with friends or colleagues, suggest doing something active and fun that you wouldn’t normally do, such as yoga, pickle ball, or group fitness. This is a great way to get your heart rate up and enjoy yourself while staying active.

2, Be mindful of, but still enjoy your festive food choices. I love pecan pie around this time of year. However, when I make it, I chop it into small pieces and have one of those pieces daily rather than having a full piece. When you are out at a cocktail party with loads of foods to choose from, start by filling half your plate with salad or vegetables. This ensures you're getting some light and nutrient-rich food into your system before indulging in other treats.

3, Think of ways to get more out of the workouts that you are able to fit in. Choose compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups at once, such as squats, lunges, and push-ups. This will give you more bang for your buck and help you get in shape more efficiently.

4, Be mindful of your drinking choices. If you drink alcohol, it's easy to overindulge during the holidays. To avoid this, offer to be the designated driver for some events, drink water in between alcoholic drinks, and opt for low-alcohol or alcohol-free options.

5, Start setting your new year health and fitness goals early. This will help you stay motivated and focused throughout the holidays. Create a diary and write down a few notes about what you want to achieve in the new year, such as running your first half-marathon, gaining muscle or losing weight. Post these goals somewhere on the fridge, or bathroom mirror so it is visible to serve as a daily reminder.

I hope these tips help you enjoy the festivities without falling into unhealthy habits. Remember, it’s all about balance. Indulge in a few treats, but don’t forget to prioritise your health and fitness.

Have a wonderful Christmas and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. Active For Life on Facebook