718’s Tips for Fighting the Battle of the Bulge

By: Reuben Pearlman 

The holidays are about family, friends, and, obviously, food. Not too surprisingly, the average American gains 5 to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Years. This belt-busting month is filled with family get-togethers, Friendsgivings, holiday parties, and some of the best football of the year. Between the snacks, booze, dessert, and second helpings, it’s pretty easy (and enjoyable) to get carried away. To help you out in your battle against the bulge, Crossfit 718 has you covered with some simple and helpful tips:

1. Try eating a healthy meal or snack before heading to a holiday party. If you aren’t hungry, you won’t be tempted to fill up on chips and heavy appetizers.
2. If you struggle with meal prep this time of year, consider ordering from Kettlebell Kitchen. They’ve got tons of healthy choices and deliver right to the box.
3. Fill up on proteins during dinner and skip carbs in favor of veggies. Cauliflower rice and spaghetti squash are great substitutions!
4. Enjoy the occasional dessert – just use a small plate and skip seconds.
5. Stick to your normal gym routine as close as possible. If you have travel plans, consider getting into the box before leaving for that road trip or heading to the airport. Or, try cramming in a few extra WODs once you’re back or before you leave.
6. Bookmark a couple travel WODs on your phone and squeeze in a tabata or EMOM from your hotel room or parents’ basement.
7. Swap out your normal WOD with a conditioning class for a more intense calorie burn.
8. Eat better all month so you don’t feel guilty during the holidays.
9. Don’t be afraid to drop in at a local box while you’re on the road. (And bring me back a cool a t-shirt!)