Why the Holidays Are the Best Time to Start Working Out
Discover why December is the ultimate month to hit an uncrowded gym, set a 24-workout holiday goal, and beat the January rush according to Lifehacker.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- December gyms are emptier as casual visitors shop and attend holiday parties
- Starting now gives you a crucial two-month head start before January crowds
- Commit to working out three times a week to log 24 sessions by Christmas
- Physical activity helps the brain effectively manage holiday stress
Throughout October and November, fitness centers and workout classes generally operate at standard capacities, providing a fine opportunity to test out the atmosphere of a new venue. However, conditions improve significantly once December arrives, because fair-weather gymgoers become preoccupied with shopping for holiday gifts after work and attending seasonal parties over the weekends. Moreover, they are less inclined to crawl out of their cozy beds in the mornings, meaning when you arrive at the facility, the squat rack will be vacant and treadmills will be yours to choose from.
Beginning your fitness routine right now grants you approximately two months to build momentum before the overwhelming rush hits in January. This period serves as an ideal timeframe to establish a manageable micro-goal and stick to it. By vowing to visit the gym three times every week, you can successfully log 24 workout sessions prior to Christmas Day, even if you take a few days off for festive celebrations.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
You can achieve substantial gains in strength through those 24 sessions, or if running is the fitness objective you find most inspiring, you can follow a couch-to-5k running program and be running continuously for 30 minutes by the time January arrives.
Although the holiday season can frequently feel hectic and stressful, it is vital to remember that exercising naturally assists our brains in processing and managing stress. A practical approach is to explicitly mark your workout dates on your calendar and honor those personal commitments to yourself.
Initiating an exercise habit during the year-end holiday period is counterintuitive to many who prioritize relaxation or festivities, yet behavioral psychology shows that starting when others pause builds lasting consistency. A tranquil gym environment drastically reduces gym anxiety for beginners, allowing them to master proper form and build discipline without the intimidating crowds that flood facilities every January.
There is no need to fret about missing out on promotional discounts either, as any studio or fitness center featuring a January special typically runs sales throughout the entire year anyway. Ultimately, cultivating an actual habit of utilizing the gym yields far superior value for your money compared to individuals who sign up in January only to abandon their memberships shortly thereafter.
Source: Lifehacker
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