Ten Ways to Stay Fit During the Holidays

The holidays mean many things; food, family gatherings, food, gifts, food... You get the idea, but even with all the culinary temptations, there are some simple ways to stay on the fitness path during the holidays, too.

1. Eat a balanced breakfast.

2. Eat small snacks throughout the day.

3. Incorporate fiber more often throughout the day. Good sources are almonds, wheat bread, strawberries. Fiber makes the body feel more full longer.

4. Park farther away and walk to the mall. Health concerns and weather aside, the more walking you do, the better.

5. My absolute silver bullet - the apple. Pectin and fiber make you feel less hungry and fuller longer.

6. Use smaller plates. Portion control is always very difficult, especially during the holidays. Small plates help you visually stay on diet track.

7. Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol is calorie-laden liquid, and it does in all the hard work you've done thus far.

8. Use the stairs (if you can), instead of the escalator.

9. Use heavier bags as "weights," and do curls when you are weighting in line.

10. If and when you can, increase the pace of your walking throughout the day. The more brisk your walks become, the more beneficial they can be for you.