As the year winds down, people tend to slip out of their regular routines. Office shutdowns, family gatherings and long road trips make it harder to stay active and eat well.

Health professionals warn that these few weeks often set the tone for the year ahead and small choices can help avoid starting the year on the back foot.

Owner of KD4UFitness and local fitness trainer Kristel Olivier said the festive period is when many people abandon healthy habits because they feel they have earned a break.

She explained that it is not the celebrations themselves that are problematic, but the sudden lack of structure. Olivier added that once routines fall away, it can become easy to postpone exercise and overindulge without realising how much has changed.

Several local gyms report a decline in attendance during December, while online searches for short workouts at home increase.

Nutritionists point out that people tend to eat more sugary foods at this time of the year, especially during family gatherings and year-end functions. This combination often leads to weight gain and lower energy levels.

Olivier encourages people to take a simple, flexible approach instead of trying to follow strict programmes.
She said festive fitness is about staying consistent enough to maintain strength and not lose progress made throughout the year.

“People should try staying active during the holidays and try snacking on healthier snacks rather than sweets,” said the trainer.

Even ten-minute activities can keep the body active while still allowing plenty of time for rest and celebration.
Here are five easy ways to stay on track.

• Keep moving daily
A short walk, light jogging, or a quick stretch in the morning can help you stay active even on busy days.

• Drink enough water
Hydration will support energy levels and curb cravings during long hours of socialising.

• Watch your portions
Enjoy your favourite festive foods, but be mindful of portion sizes so as not to overindulge unnecessarily.

• Balancing rest and activity
Take time to unwind, but couple that with light exercise so your routine does not disappear completely.

• Plan ahead
If you are expecting a full day of outings, try to fit in a quick workout before you leave, or bring along a healthy snack.