The holiday season is magical, but let’s be real—it’s also chaotic. Between gift shopping, family gatherings, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to let your health slip to the bottom of your priorities. As a dad, you’re balancing it all—making sure the kids are having fun, ensuring traditions are upheld, and still juggling work. But staying active doesn’t have to mean carving out hours at the gym. With a little intention and creativity, you can sneak fitness into your holiday schedule—and maybe even make it fun for the whole family.
Let me tell you a quick story. Last year, my December started with the best intentions. "This year, I’ll stay on track," I told myself. Spoiler alert: By mid-month, I hadn’t worked out once. Between late nights wrapping gifts and running around after my kids, I told myself I didn’t have the time. But then, one snowy Saturday, my daughter wanted to build a snowman. I bundled up reluctantly, more focused on my to-do list than the fun ahead. But as we rolled snowballs, raced each other to gather sticks for arms, and laughed about our lopsided creation, I realized something—I’d just spent the last hour being active, without even thinking about it. That moment shifted my perspective: staying active doesn’t have to look like a strict workout routine. It can fit seamlessly into your holiday traditions.
Here are a few tips I’ve learned to stay active during the holidays:
- Quick Home Workouts
No time for the gym? No problem. Carve out 10-15 minutes in the morning or evening for a simple workout. Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks can do wonders. If you have time, try a quick YouTube fitness video to follow along. The key is consistency, even if it’s just a few minutes.
- Make It a Family Affair
Turn family activities into opportunities to move. Go for a walk to look at holiday lights, have a dance party in the living room with your kids, or—like I did—head outside for snowball fights or building snowmen. These moments feel less like “exercise” and more like quality time, but trust me, they add up.
- Active Traditions
Start traditions that get everyone moving. Maybe it’s a family hike the morning before your big holiday meal or playing a game of tag football in the yard. One friend of mine does a “Santa Run” with his family every year—everyone wears Santa hats and jogs through their neighborhood.
- Sneak In Movement
Even when you’re busy, little changes can make a big difference. Park farther away at the store, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or do calf raises while standing in line. It all adds up over time.
This holiday season, remember that staying active isn’t about perfection. It’s about finding little ways to move and feel your best. So, whether it’s a quick morning workout or a snowball fight with your kids, embrace the chaos and let movement be part of the joy. After all, feeling good is the best gift you can give yourself and your family.
Here’s to staying active and enjoying every moment this holiday season!
