The holidays are upon us, and with that comes the hustle, bustle, and downright stress and anxiety. Don’t get me wrong; I love the holiday season. Nothing is better than watching your kids enjoy the season, continuing old traditions, and creating new memories. But in between it all, this time of year can send any already busy mom into overdrive.
Unfortunately, the first thing to go is usually your workout routine. Or maybe you don’t have one, but you know the extra mental health benefits of moving your body are much needed with all the holiday “cheer.”
Now is the time to think, “Something will always be better than nothing.” Even quick 10-minute bursts of movement can help clear your mind and manage stress. It doesn’t have to be perfect. That 10-minute walk, 15-minute mobility session, or 20-minute strength session will help you now more than ever. Once it’s done, you will be amazed at how much better you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally.
When I start to feel the pressure build-up from the endless “holiday” to-do list, my go-to is a short workout to boost my energy and clear my head. Quick body-weight circuits you can do anywhere are perfect any day, especially in December! Save and try my go-to circuit. It’s quick and easy and will prepare you to take on that meeting with Santa!
Set a timer and repeat this circuit as many times as you can before the timer goes off.
10 Squats
Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width, toes slightly out, core engaged, and chest up. Push hips back and bend knees, lowering until thighs are parallel to the floor (or as low as comfortable). Press through your heels to stand, squeezing your glutes at the top. Keep your chest upright, align your knees over your toes, and move with control.
10 Modified Push Ups
Begin on your hands and knees, hands slightly wider than shoulders, with a straight line from head to knees. Bend elbows at a 45-degree angle, lowering your chest toward the floor. Press through your palms to return to the starting position. Keep your core tight and back flat, and avoid sagging hips.
10 Lunges
Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and core-engaged. Take a step back with one leg, keeping your chest upright. Bend down like you were going to tie your shoe. Press through your front heel to return to the starting position. Alternate legs with each step. Keep your front heel on the ground aligned, and avoid leaning forward.
10 Tricep Dips
Sit on the edge of a sturdy chair or bench with your hands gripping the edge, fingers pointing forward, and legs extended with heels on the floor. Slide your hips off the edge, bend your elbows, and lower your body until your arms form a 90-degree angle. Press through your palms to straighten your arms and lift your body back to the starting position. Keep your elbows tucked in, shoulders away from your ears, and avoid letting your hips sag.
End the circuit with a 30-second plank.
