With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror and temperatures dropping by the day, the holiday season is fully upon us in Chicagoland. And with it comes the joy of community festivities, delicious meals, and quality time with loved ones. However, for those striving to maintain an active lifestyle, the holidays can present a unique set of challenges. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore orthopaedic tips to help you stay active and healthy during the holiday season.

Staying Active: Unwrapping the Benefits of Physical Activity

Physical activity is a gift you give to your body year-round. Too often, Americans think of increasing their physical activity levels as a New Year’s resolution. The gym memberships wait till January, and daily walks and runs resume with it. While it’s always good to set goals, the problem with this mindset is that it causes the end of our years to be too sedentary and reverses progress made over the summer or earlier in the fall. According to well-respected research from Harvard Health, staying active can alleviate stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. According to the American Heart Association, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease and boost your immune system.

Navigating Festive Feasts: Balancing Indulgence and Exercise

'Tis the season for indulgence, but it doesn't have to derail your fitness goals. Orthopaedic experts recommend incorporating light exercises like walking or yoga into your routine to offset holiday feasting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, corroborating the research discussed earlier. While we do not believe that restricting your eating habits is necessary during the holiday season, it is important that you continue to stay active.

Winter Wonderland Workouts: Embracing the Seasonal Spirit

Need some more ideas besides walking around the neighborhood? Whether you’re in the city or the suburbs, with family or yourself, Chicago's winter wonderland provides a unique backdrop for staying active. Engage in winter sports like ice skating or cross-country skiing, which are excellent low-impact activities that promote joint and cardiovascular health. Bundle up and hit the trails and the ice while giving your orthopaedic health a boost.

Home for the Holidays Exercise Routine: Incorporating Orthopaedic-Friendly Exercises

For those with less free time and staying closer to home, crafting a holiday-themed exercise routine can be both festive and beneficial. Incorporate strength training exercises recommended by orthopaedic specialists to enhance joint stability and prevent injuries. According to the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, targeted exercises can significantly reduce the risk of orthopaedic issues.

Conclusion: Making Your Holidays Merry and Active

As you navigate the holiday season in the Windy City, remember that staying active doesn't have to be a daunting task. By incorporating orthopaedic-friendly tips and exercises into your festive routine, you can enjoy the season while maintaining your health and well-being. Cheers to a happy, healthy, and active holiday season from MidAmerica Orthopaedics in Chicago!