Tonight, my beautiful one and I are heading to a Christmas party with friends.
It’s going to be boozy, gluttonous, and downright fabulous – exactly as December should be.
This time of year is about relaxing, enjoying yourself, and celebrating the hard work you’ve put in over the past 11 months.
But let’s be honest:
It’s also a time when indulgence can get the better of us, which is why I’m firmly in damage limitation mode.
Let’s Set the Scene
It’s Christmas, and like most of us, I have no plans to focus on weight loss right now.
That’s a job for January.
But does that mean a total free-for-all? Absolutely not.
Instead, I’m playing the game of offsetting – banking some calorie credit in advance so I can shamelessly enjoy myself later.
Here’s how I did it:
The Credit Play
1. Walked the Dog (275 Calories)
This afternoon, I took the Cocker for a brisk walk with my daughter.
We covered a good distance, sang carols all the way around (thanks to her insistence), and burned about 275 calories – roughly the equivalent of a pint of Proper Job already in the bank.
2. Jumped on the Wattbike (400 Calories)
After some Christmas shopping in town, I jumped on the WattBike for 40 minutes while watching the Bristol Bears vs Leicester Tigers game on the laptop (a cracker of a match, by the way).
That’s another 400 calories burned – which translates to two more drinks’ worth of credit.
Why This Works
All told, I’ve racked up 675 calories in the bank before heading out tonight.
That probably covers two pints and a glass of wine – not the whole night, but definitely a big chunk.
And here’s the thing:
It’s not about burning off every indulgence in advance – it’s about marginal gains.
Something is always better than nothing.
By planning ahead, I can go into the evening feeling relaxed, knowing I’ve already taken steps to offset the inevitable.
Let’s Make This Super Simple
1. Offset with What Works for You
I happen to have access to a Wattbike, but the same principle applies no matter what you have:
• A brisk walk.
• A run around the garden with the kids.
• A quick bodyweight workout at home.
The key is finding something you enjoy and can realistically fit into your day.
2. Keep the Focus on Fun
This isn’t about guilt or punishment – it’s about balance.
When you make movement part of your day, you create space to indulge without stressing.
3. Be Conscious, Not Restrictive
Enjoy the party.
Have the wine, eat the pudding, laugh with your friends.
But go into it with a plan – that’s where the magic happens.
Why This Will Make You “Fit for Future & Family”
This isn’t just about surviving Christmas – it’s about thriving through it.
By combining indulgence with conscious planning, you enjoy the best of both worlds:
The joy of the season and the confidence of staying in control.
And when you set this example for your family, you’re showing them that fitness and fun aren’t opposites – they’re partners.
Because when you bank those credits, you’re not just managing the moment – you’re building habits that carry you through the holidays and beyond.
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