For those trying to stay active, or even train for an Ultra Challenge, Christmas if full of times where you’re faced with a decision – to get active, or not. The simple answer is: do whatever feels right for you and fits into your life. Young children, family caring duties, and even the Christmas cooking can make leaving the house feel like an impossible task – having time off over the festive period is normal and well deserved.
However, many of us rely on precious time outside for improved wellbeing, space for our thoughts, and fresh air in the lungs. With that here are some practical tips for balancing an active lifestyle with the holidays.
1. Ease Off the Plan
The holidays can be unpredictable, full of last-minute plans, additional commitments, and changes to routine. Rather than worrying about rigidly sticking to a training schedule, allow some flexibility. If the total volume of active time must drop, then you could tweak intensity for the same training benefit. A 30-minute easy walk could become a 20-minute power-walk. Whether you walk, jog, or run, shorter and/or easier sessions will count and will help you return to structured training in the New Year feeling refreshed not burned out. You can still do as much training as you like – just have fun with it!
2. Include Your Loved Ones
Training doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Did you know the single biggest factor that encourages people to become active is having someone to train with? Let this Christmas be the time you invite a family member or loved one on your walk, jog, or run. Involving others can make movement feel more enjoyable during a busy period – and don’t forget others probably cherish their outdoors time just as much as you.
3. Make a Festive Challenge
This one is especially effective for getting others involved! Create little challenges, like finding the best Christmas decorations in your local area or running to a festive hot chocolate stand. These achievable goals can add some fun into training and maintain motivation whilst taking the pressure off.
4. Listen to Your Body
Late nights, delicious food, and perhaps some Christmas drinks can leave you feeling more tired than usual. If your body is asking for rest and time off, listen to it. Far better to enter the New Year on a high compared to running your reserves down over the holidays. Recovery is a crucial part of training and a couple of extra rest days will not undo any progress. If anything, coming into January itching to train for whichever Ultra Challenge you have chosen for 2026 will help your motivation.
5. Consistency Beats Perfection
Whatever happens over the holidays, don’t beat yourself up about it and make sure the New Year can bring some new energy with it. It is better keep up with whatever you can, no pressure or expectations, and feel positive when the hard work begins again. Small efforts add up, so maintaining a habit even at a reduced level is the important part.
Hopefully some of these tips will be useful to Ultra Challengers over the festive break! Make sure you’re following us on socials and let us know how you deal with the Christmas period.
