Stay on Track Over the Festive Season:Simple Tips to Keep Your Weight Steady

The festive season is a brilliant time to relax, celebrate and enjoy good food with the people you care about. But it’s also a time when routines slip, portions grow, and suddenly January feels a little heavier than expected. The good news? You don’t need to diet your way through December. A few small habits can go a long way in helping you maintain your weight—while still enjoying yourself.

1. Don’t Skip Your Usual Movement

Aim to keep some form of regular activity in your week, even if your schedule feels busier. Short workouts count. A brisk 20-minute walk, a quick home circuit, or dropping in for a shorter gym session helps keep your metabolism ticking and your energy levels up.

2. Eat Mindfully (Not Perfectly)

Festive food is meant to be enjoyed—but try to slow down and actually taste it. Eating mindfully helps you avoid overeating without feeling restricted. Ask yourself if you’re going back for more because you’re hungry or simply because it’s there.

3. Prioritise Protein and Veg

Before diving into stuffing balls and desserts, fill your plate with some lean protein and vegetables. They help keep you fuller for longer, which naturally leads to smaller portions of the richer, calorie-dense foods.

4. Manage Liquid Calories

Alcohol, festive coffees and creamy hot chocolates can add up quickly. Try alternating alcoholic drinks with water, choose smaller sizes where possible, or treat these as occasional rather than daily indulgences.

5. Plan Your “Big Days”

You’ll likely have a few meals or events where you know you’ll eat more—Christmas Day, office parties, family gatherings. Instead of trying to avoid these, plan around them. Eat balanced meals beforehand, stay hydrated, and don’t let one big meal turn into a week-long spree.

6. Prioritise Sleep

Late nights and disrupted routines are common this time of year, but lack of sleep increases hunger and makes cravings harder to manage. Even a consistent sleep window on most nights can make a huge difference.

7. Be Kind to Yourself

December is not the time for strict dieting or guilt. The aim is maintenance, not perfection. One indulgent meal won’t derail you—just get back to your usual habits the next day.

With a little balance and awareness, you can enjoy the whole season without feeling like you’re starting from scratch in January. And of course, we’re here to help you stay moving and stay motivated along the way.