Guest Post by my business partner - Jesse

Traditionally, the Christmas/New Year period is one of all-out excess, mainly in the areas of food and drink but the old credit card can also take a hit too as it can become all too easy to fall into the trap of ‘pay for it later’ thinking!

 At the same time, for us living down under, it’s also summer time and a time when a lot more flesh is generally bared - either by choice or necessity!

So, as we head into that period, I encourage you to stay focused on your goals and the bigger picture. Remember, the more of your hard work you let slide, the harder you have to work to get it back.

 Below I have listed a few pointers to preserving your hard earned gains over the festive season:

• Pre-plan your training over the period. If you plan on taking a break over Xmas, crank up the intensity now to maximize the 2 weeks you have left. If you are going to train through that period, get organised and plan your sessions now. This will give you structure and something to look forward to. This is also a great time to try some new training techniques, some new exercises or maybe a totally different style of training.
• If you are going to have a few drinks, look for options that will contain less calories: low carb beers are a good option and there are plenty of choices on the market; if drinking spirits, look for low sugar mixers such as soda water. Use natural fruits such as limes to add flavour rather than relying in sugar-laden cordials.
• Go the BBQ! Generally, the good old Aussie barbie can provide low carb meal options: focus on meats and salads, and minimise intake of breads, chips and snacks
• Plan your ‘off days’ - wherever possible, plan the days where you will treat yourself but remember, this principle only works if you keep your food clean on the other days.
• Keep your incidental activity high - many people take time off work over this period, so use your ‘down time’ wisely: walk the dog more often, play with the kids, walk to the local shops - all those little things that tend to fall into the ‘not enough time’ basket when you are in your normal routine

 Well, as you will see these tips are certainly not rocket science, rather basic common sense.

If you wish to recieve our ‘beach body bootcamp’ program for you to use whilst away, then let us know and we will send it out to you FREE of charge (our gift to you).

 Take time to enjoy the company of family and friends, enjoy some good food and a few drinks but at the same time, remember the bigger picture and where you are heading - make sure over Christmas that direction is not “backwards”!

 Jesse