Healthy Living

Fitting Fitness into your Holiday

22 December 2015 - by Nicole Meredith
Sometimes, the so-called “holiday season” feels nothing like a holiday. Amidst all the shopping, baking, decorating, and gift-wrapping, it can be tough to take time for yourself.

Here are four ways to fit fitness back into your hectic holiday schedule - without making a workout feel like an extra thing on your To Do list:

  1. Take time to unwind
    Productivity skyrockets when we’re in a calm, stress-free state. To tackle those last holiday projects, you need to relax! Fit in some gentle stretching and meditation exercises in a YMCA yoga or tai chi class.

  2.  Be flexible
    The holidays are about spending time with your loved ones. If your best friend’s potluck
    conflicts with your regular workout time, that’s okay! Set your alarm an hour earlier, fit in
    some laps in the pool, and then reward yourself by having fun with your friends!

  3. Try a group fitness class
    Get the inspiration you need to stay motivated this holiday season from our upbeat 
    group fitness instructors. Fun music, easy-to-follow exercises, and energetic classmates will help the time fly by!

  4. Make it a date
    Does the holiday spirit have you missing a certain friend or relative? Ask them to join you
    for some laps around the track! You won’t have to worry about tidying up, preparing any treats, or any of the other prerequisites for entertaining. When you meet at the Y, both of you can focus on enjoying your time together!


Whatever your fitness preferences, the Y has something for you. We know the holidays can get stressful, which is why we stay open 365 days a year! Take advantage of our stress-busting classes and amenities and wrap up 2015 on a healthy note.

For a list of holiday classes and hours, visit the YMCA of Greater Toronto website.

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