Snowbound and it’s the Holiday Season Too!
Weight gain during the holiday season seems to be an acceptable and average American experience. Although we are aware of the side affects of weight gain, and agree the number one New Year’s resolution is to lose weight, why does it still happen?  Â
Well, let’s first agree that an ounce of prevention is equal to a pound of cure. Meaning, as Pat Reilly would say “THE BEST OFFENSE IS A GOOD DEFENSE”. The last few days in New York have been cold and snowy, more than 6 inches total. So, instead of feeling stressed due to the lack of activity and being limited to the indoor, why not simply plan ahead. Â
I suggest creating a section in your home that is specifically set up for exercise and stretching. Have your journal on hand to record your sets, repetitions and mini walk cycles. Instead of just catching up with friends on the phone, try using the speakerphone and marching in place or walking on the treadmill. There is actually a new treadmill called the Treaddesk that has been introduced to many offices to have their employees walk slowly while working at their desk. Â
Of course, the other side of the equation is nutrition. So, plan ahead by having high quality, no sugar snacks in the house. Try pineapple, green apples or low calorie protein bars or soup. Let’s commit to indoor exercise, healthy snacking, hydration, meditation and goal setting during a snowstorm. Â
Yes, breaking old habits can be difficult, but trying something new can be exciting. Instead of just baking, try creating a new dish that is low in calories and taste great too. My favorite dessert to prepare for my family is a healthy brownie. Instead of using sugar, I substitute a mashed banana and applesauce for the butter and sugar. Â
So, the next time the weather man said a winter storm is on the way, be sure to stock up on the right ingredients for your new healthy baking and cooking, call old friends while exercising indoors and why not catch up on journaling too! Â
Lisa Avellino
Focus 28 Fitness Expert
www.focus28wellness.com



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I have always used applesauce instead of butter or oil and it gives things a better taste and also makes cakes more moist..
Comment by Tess R — December 24, 2008 @ 8:27 am
My entire office has become my workout area .No excuses anymore..I will always have an area to workout in .
Comment by Ginny M — December 24, 2008 @ 11:29 am
If i get snowed in i am prepared !
Comment by Marcy B — December 24, 2008 @ 1:31 pm
I am trying my hardest not to put on any weight this season!I work out daily and i keep my snacks and meals healthy as can be.
Comment by Breanna P — December 25, 2008 @ 5:32 pm
My resolution is to maintain my weight loss..
Comment by Jackie R — December 26, 2008 @ 9:34 am
Shoveling snow has got to be a good exercise…
Comment by Kathy J — December 26, 2008 @ 12:33 pm
I love the snow but i hate being stuck in the house,i will use your tips to get through the snowy days.
Comment by Nina V — December 26, 2008 @ 2:41 pm
I am always stocked up on the healthy stuff!
Comment by Veronica S — December 27, 2008 @ 12:42 pm
I dont care what the wheather is i must always keep my cabinets stocked with the healthy foods i enjoy!
Comment by Sandra F — December 27, 2008 @ 3:43 pm
My entire home has been fixed to suit my needs while im dieting..
Comment by Margret Ann R — December 27, 2008 @ 4:45 pm
I dont care what it is like outside i keep my days healthy no matter what!
Comment by Vickie H — December 28, 2008 @ 8:48 am
I have lost all my weight but yet these holidays always scare me so im on my toes at all times.
Comment by Tina G — December 28, 2008 @ 11:50 am
I couldnt make it without my meditation or my snack bars thats for sure
Comment by Grace W — December 28, 2008 @ 2:51 pm
I always plan ahead.
Comment by Marinna T — December 29, 2008 @ 9:05 am
Not even being snowbound would make me gain back any weight.i learned that here at focus i just stick to the plan and adhere to the simple ideas i have been given.
Comment by Alla B — December 29, 2008 @ 12:07 pm
Happy healthy holidays to all who visit .
Comment by Stan C — December 29, 2008 @ 2:08 pm
Nothing but warm holiday greetings to all who work at focus28!!
Comment by Darcy U — December 30, 2008 @ 9:01 am
Just always say healthy choices to yourself and it gets you through the day.At least it does for me..I did not gain any weight back yet and i dont plan on it .
Comment by Piper G — December 30, 2008 @ 11:26 am
You can believe by next winter i will have this down pat if i stick with focus and i intend too..
Comment by Mimi M — December 30, 2008 @ 3:00 pm