Article and images by Niamh Hislop

Hurrah! It’s summer and my word isn’t it long overdue? As many of us head into one of the busiest times of our lives, it might seem like a bit of a struggle to maintain our fitness levels.

It’s well known that gym attendances fall during the Christmas holidays. Lets face it, it’s not always easy to make it to the gym when we have kids home for the holidays plus all of that extra entertaining and partying also takes its toll.

If you’re worried about what all that carousing will do to your health, (and your waistband), then here are a few tips to keep you fit and sane! Or, if you’re not quite at your fittest now, but have great intentions for the New Year, then why not follow a few of these tips and make a head-start?

Keep it simple

It’s probably not the time to commit to any new fancy-schmancy exercise challenges at home. Instead, aim to do a 10 minute high-intensity workout before your shower in the morning. Here’s one you can do without any equipment or fuss: start with a few simple stretches to get you warmed up, followed by a 3 rounds of 5 burpees, 10 push-ups, 15 squats, 20 lunges, and 25 sit-ups. It’s quick and will get your metabolism fired up to help you stay energized throughout the day.

Take it Outside

We’ve all been waiting for this summer weather, why not make the most of it and get outside now the sun’s finally found us? Nothing like a brisk walk along Canadian Bay beach to make you appreciate how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful spot. Or it you’re looking for more of a challenge, try an uphill sprint at Moorooduc quarry off Two Bays Road.

When in Rome

If you’re lucky enough to get away for a few days or more, take advantage of whatever’s on offer. Bring a pair of running shoes to explore the neighbourhood, or take some surfing or stand-up paddleboard classes if you’re by the sea. Mark at ‘SUP-Fit’ can give you a few pointers if you want to have a practice before you go. If you’re in the country, seek out some hiking opportunities or hire a bike and find some hills!

Not an outdoorsy sort of person?

Many gyms allow drop-ins or offer 10-pass session, we certainly do here at CrossFit Mt Eliza. It’s a great way to make new friends and you’ll always learn something new from a different coach.

Packing the essentials

But what if you’re visiting the in-laws who live in the middle of nowhere? Now’s the time to grab your skipping rope and practice those double unders. For the uninitiated, this is when the rope makes two passes per jump instead of just one. You’ll have worked off that Christmas Pudding in no-time.

Talking about pudding

Of course holidays are a time for indulgences. What’s the point of going on a long bike ride if you can’t enjoy an ice-cream at the end? Mt Eliza Village Fruits and the Sheep Station Bakehouse have got you covered for that! Of course it’s important to try and maintain a balance. Between indulgences, why not pack yourself a healthy lunch and snacks like a fresh salad, nut and seed mix, veggie sticks and some lush summer fruit.

Stay hydrated

Water is essential for our good health. Most people should aim to drink approximately 1.5 to 2 litres of water a day, depending on your size and level of activity. Make sure you bring a bottle of water with you and take it easy on the alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Stay away from soft drinks. Please.

Have fun

Holidays are all about relaxing with family and friends and taking the time to really enjoy yourself. Believe me, it’s more beneficial to your health to run around with the kids for half an hour than it is to slave away on a treadmill for twice as long. If you’re a hard-core gym addict, maybe it’s time to relax and allow your body to recharge. Work on your mobility rather than pounding the weights. However, if, like me, you just can’t stay away, then feel free to pop in and see us at CrossFit Mt Eliza where you’ll always get a warm welcome.

Alasdair Hislop is Head Coach at CrossFit Mt Eliza. It’s his mission in life to motivate, instruct and inspire his members to help them smash their goals and live fuller, healthier lives.

If you want to be fitter, faster, and stronger, then call him on 0408 213 420

www.crossfitmteliza.com
www.facebook.com/crossfitmteliza.com.au

This article has been provided by Niamh Hislop as a contributor to Live Love Mount Elisa. If you would like to submit and article, see terms and condition and make submissions here