SHAPING UP: As the festive season draws ever nearer here’s some top tips to stay on track

Since this is the time of year that most people's goals take a back seat I’ve got a mini checklist to help you stay on track so you don’t feel like you need to start all over again once the calendar shows January 1.

Your mission: feeling ahead of all your goals when 2023 makes its grand entrance!

These six simple steps (that you can start doing right now) go a long way toward keeping your momentum up.

And even better: you’ll feel amazing along the way.

1. PREPARE!

When your schedule is hectic or extra busy, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead. Basically, it boils down to this:-

If you fly by the seat of your pants for the next few weeks, they might not zip up so easily by the end of the year!

Plan your meals … block in your workouts … and make time for some self-care!

2. SKIP THE SUGAR AND OTHER EMPTY CALORIES.

This will get you off the blood sugar and junk food roller coaster.

Your energy levels will stabilise and your digestive system will thank you, too.

Yes, you should enjoy the “worth it” treats over the holidays, but pass on the ones you don’t even really want — but the ones you would eat “because they are there.”

3. DON’T OVER-CAFFEINATE.

A little caffeine will get you going, but too much of it will leave you feeling wired, anxious, and grouchy, plus it can give you headaches and stomach aches.Plus a few hours later it can make you even more tired and it can mess with your sleep.

Speaking of which…

4. GET ENOUGH SLEEP.

Make room in your schedule for a solid seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

And then make your bedroom as restful as possible (dark, quiet, cool, etc.).This will keep your mood and energy up … and your appetite in check, since lack of sleep can play havoc with your hunger hormones.

5. BE ACTIVE.

Sitting around all day can be a real energy zapper — and it can also lead to stiff and achy muscles.Get up and move throughout the day and schedule your workouts ahead of time.

6. HYDRATE!

You already know this, but make it a point to get two litres of water a day.

Everything works better when you’re hydrated.

Put that list on repeat over the next couple of months and you’ll sail through the Christmas period feeling healthy and motivated!

And if you’re struggling to stay on track?

Our boot camp programme gives you the step-by-step guidance and accountability you need to stay fit and healthy without having to avoid your favourite Christmas foods.

It’s already helped hundreds people this year and it’s available to you, too.

For more info go to www.eastcoast-fitness.com

P.S. There are only about six weeks left of this year, so if you’re serious about getting the help you need, now is the time to reach out and finish the year strong!

With over 10 years of personal training experience, Graham says he has created a “friendly and welcoming fitness business” where his clients feel “comfortable” working out.

"East Coast Fitness is about more than just losing weight,” he explains.

"The idea behind East Coast Fitness services is to help you get more active, become healthier, feel great, gain confidence and live life to the fullest.