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    5 Ways to Kick-Start a Pre-Holiday Season Workout Routine

    By | Holiday Moments – Mon, Nov 8, 2010 11:35 PM EST

    Our spin instructor left us with this factoid today: You'll gain at least one pound during the holiday season, but unfortunately your chances of losing that extra pound are slim. Sure, it may be getting darker earlier and cold temps make you want to curl up inside, but starting an exercise plan now will only help make it easier to work off those extra calories during the holidays. Start today with these five tips. Also see, From Fab to Flab: Your Holiday Survival Guide

    1. Make working out part of the start of your day. Lay out your workout clothes the night before, so they are the first thing you see when you wake up. That way there are no excuses in the morning. Related: Pack the Perfect Gym Bag

    2. Hire a personal trainer. If you've paid for it and have an appointment to meet with a trainer, you'll be there! Related: Get a Flatter Tummy with These Moves

    3. Or, enlist a friend. Can't afford a trainer? Make an appointment with a friend. Even if you don't work out together, knowing that someone is there waiting for you and counting on you will motivate you to get to the gym. Related: 15 FUN Exercises to Do with a Partner

    4. Put it on the calendar like any of your other appointments. Why should dinner with your girlfriends, your dentist appointment, or grocery shopping get a spot on your calendar and not your favorite workout class? Related: Firm Arms in 15 Minutes

    5. Find time during your lunch break. Stop thinking about what you're doing and instead focus on how hard you are doing it. You can run for hours at a light to moderate intensity and not burn nearly the amount of calories you might in a 45-minute cycling class or run on the treadmill where you change your intensity every 5 minutes. Choose your favorite cardio exercise (dancing, running, walking, kickboxing) and vary your intensity throughout your workout for the most efficient and best results. Related: 45 Best-Body Secrets

    Related: A-Z Guide to Holiday Eating Habits

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