I cannot believe it is the last week of 2022. The holidays flew by, and now the New Year is just a few days away. These quiet days between the end of one year and the start of the next are an ideal time to rest, reset, and prepare for whatever comes next. If you’re feeling a little sluggish after indulgent holiday meals and less movement than usual, know that you’re not alone. I personally prefer to keep things low-key this week without drifting into laziness — a balance that usually leaves me feeling refreshed. A short walk or a bit of movement often makes a big difference. Here are some simple, enjoyable ways to stay active during these last days of the year:
- Walk more. Make a point to take at least one walk every day. Invite a sibling, parent, or friend and enjoy some fresh air together. You can add purpose to your walk by heading out for coffee or a cold-pressed green juice.
- Try a new studio class. After years of working out at home, I’ve loved getting back into studio life recently — from F45 to a local circuit studio called Bodi. If you’ve been home-based for a while, consider sampling something different like yoga, Pilates, spin, or even rock climbing. It’s a fun way to change your routine before an upcoming program starts.
- Play pickleball with friends or family. I’m still learning, but pickleball is a blast. If you have paddles, find a court and give it a try — it’s social, active, and surprisingly addictive.
- Visit a store or shopping center. Sometimes a simple change of scenery sparks energy and ideas. Walking through a mall or outdoor shopping area is an easy way to get steps in while browsing, and in some places shopping centers are outdoors, which makes the stroll even more pleasant.
- Join a live-streamed workout. Following a live or recorded class can boost motivation and help you stay consistent. There are plenty of live workouts available online, and training alongside others (even virtually) often feels easier and more fun than going it alone. I plan to keep offering live sessions and hope to see you join a class soon.