How Can I Manage My Holidays and Training?

The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for family, food, and festivities, it can also throw off your training schedule. For fighters and combat sports enthusiasts, staying on track during the holidays can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here’s a guide to balancing holiday events with your boxing or MMA routine so you can stay in shape without missing out on the season’s best moments.

First, plan ahead. Look at your calendar and pinpoint days with family gatherings, parties, or other obligations. If you know you have a big event coming up, try to fit in an intense training session earlier in the week. This way, you won’t feel like you’re missing out or losing progress if you skip a day or take it easy on the event day. Think of it as front-loading your efforts.

Be flexible with your schedule. During the holidays, your usual training hours might not be possible, so stay open to switching things up. If you typically train in the evenings, consider a morning workout before the day’s activities kick off. Even a shorter, high-intensity session can be effective if time is tight. The goal here is consistency, not perfection – getting something done is better than skipping it altogether.

Incorporate family and friends into your routine if you can. If you’re with family who enjoy staying active, suggest a group workout, a game of flag football, or even just a walk together. Not only will this help keep you moving, but it also makes staying fit a fun part of the holiday experience. For more intense training, you could always bring a pair of gloves to shadowbox or drill footwork on your own when there’s downtime.

Mind your nutrition but don’t stress too much. Holiday meals are packed with temptations, and it’s okay to indulge a bit! Just try to keep things balanced – if you’re at a party, fill up on lean protein, veggies, and complex carbs first, then allow yourself some holiday treats. Staying hydrated is also key, especially if you’re in the middle of a more intense training cycle.

Lastly, listen to your body. The holiday season can be exhausting, with all the social events and late nights. If you’re feeling run down, it’s okay to give yourself a break. Rest is part of training, and it’s crucial to avoid burnout. Sometimes, a few days off can help you come back stronger, both mentally and physically.

In the end, balancing training with holiday obligations comes down to planning, flexibility, and being kind to yourself. Don’t stress about perfection – enjoy the season, stay active where you can, and remember that a little bit of balance goes a long way.