The holiday season is here. Go ahead — get as festive as you like. Deck the halls. Prep the feast. Eat the pumpkin pie. You can do (and indulge in) it all and keep your fitness routine strong. In fact, it’s the best time of year to give new wellness habits a whirl.

Do a Turkey Trot

The average American consumes around 3,000 calories during Thanksgiving dinner. If you want to burn off that bird, you practically need to run a marathon. Good news: There is likely a turkey trot near you. These running or walking events typically happen the day before or after Thanksgiving and proceeds go to charity. A win-win.

Make Heart-Pumping Travel Plans

Go the extra mile. Try out a group exercise class while you’re on the road. Before you head out of town, research gyms and studios in the area you’re going to. It’s all part of getting into the mindset and sticking to routine. And the options you discover may really excite you.

Be a Good-Food Party Guest

Skip the chips and dips. Pop into your holiday party with a healthy treat. Have some fun and play with a healthier version of a traditional side, like mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes. Having a good-for-you option available is as simple as providing it.

Play Touch Football

Couch potato moments happen — especially when the big game is on. Shake things up at halftime (or commercial breaks, if you’re feeling ambitions) and head outside to throw your own football around. You’ll get an energy boost — and a calorie burn. Every 15-minute halftime spent playing touch football burns approximately 125 calories.

Mix Up Your Cookie Swap

Cookie exchanges are traditions that are too yummy to pass up. Keep your parties going and bake all your favorites. Just add a healthy twist. On top of the cookie box, attach a healthy recipe that’s heavy on fruits and veggies. It’s called balance. (Wink.)

Grab a Workout Buddy

A workout buddy is an accountability partner — a pal that lifts you up. And they’re especially helpful when you’re trying to stick to a fitness routine. When you buddy up and move together, you have a built-in cheerleader that motivates you to reach your goals. And if you wind up with a little friendly competition along the way, well… that doesn’t hurt, either!

Take Time for Self-Care

The holidays can be stressful. So be sure to treat yourself to quiet moments, away from it all. Sneak in a pedicure. Book a facial. Take a bubble bath. Start every morning with a quick meditation. You’ll be glad you spent time on you.

About FitReserve:

FitReserve is the premier multi-studio fitness membership that allows you to mix-and-match in-person, live stream and on-demand workouts across a curated selection of the best studios and gyms. For more information, visit fitreserve.com, download the app on iOS or Google Play, and follow FitReserve on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.