’Tis the Season to Stay in Shape

This holiday season personal trainers Herb Sylvain and R.J. Rotante will be treating themselves to some goodies. (Yes, even these Underground Fitness trainers allow themselves the occasional splurge.) Of course, Herb and R.J. can indulge; they use their holiday excess to fuel longer workouts. So we asked these UF pros for tips on how to keep the ghost of Christmas pasta at bay as we navigate the holiday party circuit.

Day of the Party

Fuel with protein beginning with a protein powder smoothie for breakfast. R.J. adds flax seed (for healthy fat) and a dash of cinnamon to boost metabolism. Keep your tank full by eating meals, with emphasis on lean protein and veggies, at regular intervals during the day. Eat a pre-party snack. R.J. is a fan of Quest protein bars, which pack twenty grams of keep-you-full fiber.

At the Buffet

Exercise portion control. “Splurge on that piece of chocolate cheesecake, but cut one small piece and stop there,” says Herb. Sip cocktails that are clear (think gin and tonic). These tend to pack fewer calories than creamy cocktails like eggnog. Avoid carbo-loaded beer. Skip the creamy dips; substitute with salsa and crudités. Stick with lean roast turkey, chicken or cocktail shrimp. Avoid anything fried. Just say no to party- animal friends. “We all have a fun friend who likes to lead us astray with too much food or booze. Say goodbye until January,” says R.J., or, “invite them to meet you for a workout.”

If You Overindulge

Hit the gym stat.“If you put it off, the next thing you know it’s January and you’re in trouble,” says R.J. Pump up the volume with fifteen minutes of intense cardio (think running in place) added to your regular cardio routine. “Boxing is an excellent way to punch away some holiday stress while burning calories,” says Herb. Add variety to your fitness routine to keep metabolism in high gear. Use your body. Moves that rely on your body for support (think lunges, planks, wall sits and pushups) are the most potent ways to “lose weight fast,” says Herb.