winter is here

Scott Schwab:
As the snow fly's and the temperature drops it is key to have a backup plan for the lack of outside activity. I was asked to put together a list of a couple things that I do to try and stay slim. I am like a hibernating bear and find myself gaining a lot of weight during the holidays, except for last year. Part of that is because we did an 8 week challenge so I was more conscious. However, here are a couple of things that you can do to keep the pounds down during the winter.

Diet:
I don't mean this in taking on the latest fad diet. I do not believe in diets, but I am a huge believer in lifestyle changes. Yes they are harder, yes they take more time, but yes you will get results. Results is what we all seek so make a plan and accomplish it.
- whole grains, incorporate as many whole foods, especially grains for your success.
- nuts and berries, besides antioxidants which naturally cleanse your body and strengthen your immune system, you will also get the right fats and sugars that your body will have an easier time digesting.
- Fish and chicken, eat the meets that are high in protein and low in fat. Pork is the worst meat for you, and if you can implement it, try and avoid burgers, steaks, and other meats often. Yes they have great value to implement sparingly, but too often we eat meat daily.
- Just like your mama said, eat your veggies. They have so many benefits including vitamins and minerals that naturally help your body avoid getting sick and providing you with good protein and starches that your body uses effectively.

Exercise:
- Find inside tasks to burn some calories. Vacuuming, folding laundry, deep cleaning base boards, washing walls are great calorie burners if you do them for about an hour.
- Push ups and sit ups are great because you can do them without having a treadmill, ball, and weights.
- Get to the gym, it is a perfect time to get a membership because of the cold. The gym gets packed, so get their and claim your machines. Have a plan before you get to the gym so you don't wander aimlessly.
- Get an exciting video like hip hop abs or Tony Little's in home workout. Just kidding, but there are some really good workouts out there like insanity, p90x, and wii fit.