Healthy Living

Post-holiday fitness

24 December 2015 - by Nicole Meredith
Hitting the gym on one of the busiest days of the year seems counter-intuitive. But research shows that you’ll actually be more productive – and happier! – if you make time for a workout today.

How could exercise benefit me when I have so much to do?

Physical activity reduces stress. It can help temporarily distract you from the remaining items on your To Do list.

That’s especially true if you usually follow a fitness routine, but put it on hold during the holidays. Your body likes structure and being on a schedule: if you keep doing the workout you’re used to through the holiday madness, it feels comfortingly familiar. When you get home after your workout, you’ll feel refreshed, re-energized, and ready to tackle those last-minute projects.

What type of exercise is best under these stressful circumstances?

Most people assume you have to take a yoga class or meditate in order to relax. Those are fantastic options, but even fast-paced, high intensity workouts have positive effects when you’re stressed. Get your heart rate up in a CycleFit or Arriba class, and feel that pent-up tension melt away!

All 8 YMCA centres of community are open throughout the holiday season, so no matter your exercise preferences, we’re here to help you stay happy and healthy! Take a well-deserved break from your prep work, and watch your productivity skyrocket.

For more information on YMCA Holiday Schedules and activities, visit our website.

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