Staying on track with your workouts and healthy eating might seem impossible over the holidays, especially when the focus is on indulgent parties and long feasts. And sure, it’s always rewarding to enjoy some treats with your loved ones, but how can you authentically find a healthy balance? We sat down with Ride and Yoga instructor Craig for his advice on staying fit this festive season.

1. What are your top tips to stay fit in the festive season?

Indulge on special days/gatherings not for the whole season.
Stay active. Try to fit in quick work outs even if it’s a five min powerful stretch in the morn or a quick run to the shops.
Stay hydrated - with lots of salty foods and alcohol it’s even more important to get your water intake. Aim for 2 litres per day.

2. Do you change your food philosophy over Christmas?

I tend not to not to be too strict with myself over the holiday period and allow myself to eat, drink and be merry. I still make sure I get the vitamins in by keeping the diet as balanced as I can. Usually starting the day with a smoothie packed full of goodness (banana, berries spinach, ginger, chia, flax, cacao nibs, oat milk) makes me feel less guilty about what comes after.

3. What's your typical Christmas dinner?

It has to be the traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings and extra caramelised parsnips! Plus a side of my mum’s sweet potato and cream cheese topped nut roast recipe! *drool*

4. Do you have any recovery or self-care rituals?

With lots of boozy late nights and heavy foods I make sure I get plenty of rest after. I aim to get in 8 hours of sleep a day whenever I can.
The festive period can be quite hectic so I make sure I check in with myself every day with my daily yoga practice. Even if this is a 15 min practice it really helps to clear the mind, detoxify and destress.
Walk it off. I take myself away from the city and go for a nice brisk walk in nature. Somewhere beautiful like a lake or a forest.

Interview by Stephanie Cusack - marketing/events manager and yoga teacher at BECYCLE.

How To Stay Fit This Festive Season