The holiday season is right around the corner, and NOW is the best time to get started on building healthy habits — don’t wait until the New Year to make the commitment to improve your personal health and wellness.

Having a personal coach to provide you with support, encouragement and accountability can be the difference between gaining a few pounds and feeling sluggish or losing a few pounds and having the energy to enjoy the holidays with family and friends.

Want to learn how to “hack the holidays” for better health? The experienced coaches at Cōpare˚ have helpful, practical tips for helping you lose weight and maintain your health throughout the busy holiday season.

10 TIPS & TRICKS TO KEEP THE WEIGHT OFF — 

WHILE STILL ENJOYING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

1. Build in time for activity alongside your social events. For example – organize a “pre or post” Thanksgiving walk with your family and friends or sign up for a local Turkey Trot.
2. Don’t do all your shopping online. While shopping online is easy and convenient, it’s not going to help your waistline. Get in the holiday spirit by going to the stores and mall, even if you’re just browsing for ideas or enjoying the holiday displays.
3. Take time to clean before and after the party. Not only will your home sparkle, you’ll also stay active and burn some extra calories.
4. Sip and savor those festive beverages and watch the extra-indulgent drinks (like eggnog). Have one glass of wine and drink plenty of healthier, zero calorie beverages, like H2O. Quality vodka paired with soda water will always be your best choice if you choose to imbibe.
5. Don’t skip meals to “save “room for the big meal or holiday party. If you do, you’ll end up overeating the wrong foods when you finally sit down to the meal.
6. Stand up and socialize. Don’t stay glued to the couch or dining table when you arrive at a party. Stand up and chat with other guests or offer to help the host replenish food or clean up. He or she will be grateful for the extra hands, and as a bonus, you’ll be sure to score an invitation to next year’s holiday party.
7. Get on the scale and monitor yourself. Set up a weekly weigh-in for yourself. Monday mornings are the perfect time to get a dose of reality after you’ve hit up a few holiday soirees. Don’t be scared of the number but use it to keep yourself honest.
8. Offer to bring a dish. Take initiative to supply the healthy options. Instead of baking a batch of your favorite cookies, opt to bring a healthy treat, such as a gorgeous veggie platter. Chances are, others there will appreciate your contribution.
9. Check out your options before indulging. Take a stroll around the table and consider how to create a healthy and balanced plate. Start with greens and protein, eat mindfully, and skip the second servings.
10. Remember, you cannot “out-exercise” a BAD diet. Keep up with your fitness routine but be aware that overindulging in unhealthy foods will still cause you to gain weight.  Enjoy the holidays but remember — everything in moderation!