Surviving The Silly Season: How To Maintain Your Goals Over Christmas

Caitlyn Davey • April 2, 2025

In the midst of endless advice flooding every channel on navigating the holiday season, the topic can become wearisome and repetitive. Yet, amid this repetition, the central message remains persistently unanswered. Do you adhere strictly to your routine during the festivities, or do you indulge throughout the holiday and just enjoy? This debate comprises two distinct perspectives. On one side, numerous nutritional and health experts advocate for embracing the joy of Christmas, asserting the freedom to indulge in one's desires, particularly when it comes to food. Conversely, the opposing viewpoint, albeit diminishing, suggests that maintaining one's progress throughout the holiday season is feasible. It emphasises the possibility of staying aligned with personal goals, even amidst the celebratory chaos.'Those who emerge from the festive season content,' notes coach Sean, 'are generally individuals who've stayed committed to their goals and achievements.' He contrasts this with individuals adopting the 'it is what it is' mindset, who find themselves only partially satisfied during the festivities. Recognising that one has regressed from a hard-earned routine can be profoundly disheartening. For many, this setback feels akin to undoing months of dedicated effort, highlighting how easily one can lose track.The pivotal question revolves around its worthiness. Everyone approaches the holidays uniquely. For some, it's a time of relaxation, while for others, it presents an opportunity to catch up on missed training or pursue unmet fitness aspirations. 'Ultimately, it hinges on your personal perception of Christmas,' adds coach James, 'and also on your childhood experiences of celebrating it.' As time passes, perspectives evolve, shaping how one wishes to feel post-Christmas. If the annual aftermath breeds self-disappointment every January, perhaps adhering to personal routines without losing focus could be more rewarding. However, for some, a period of rest and recovery works wonders. Taking a week-long break might reignite determination and vigour for training. Yet, for many, the most challenging part lies in getting back on track.The ultimate strategy for navigating the holiday season lies in doing what genuinely uplifts you, rather than combatting the festive atmosphere. 'For me, training is a non-negotiable as it brings me joy, even if I indulge in less-than-ideal eating habits around it,' shares James. Moreover, it's crucial not to berate oneself for slipping up. Surrounded by a feast of calories and delectable desserts, giving in occasionally might spare you from regrets. 'Those who plunge into an unbroken two-week holiday often return to work wishing they'd actually taken a break from their break,' adds Sean.  

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By Rebuild Team April 24, 2025
When the mornings are darker, the beds are warmer, and the rain seems endless, it’s easy to tell yourself you’ll get back to the gym next week. But here’s the truth—winter isn’t a reason to pause your progress. It’s the season that separates the stop-starters from the ones who truly transform. When the mornings are darker, the beds are warmer, and the rain seems endless, it’s easy to tell yourself you’ll get back to the gym next week. But here’s the truth—winter isn’t a reason to pause your progress. It’s the season that separates the stop-starters from the ones who truly transform. At Rebuild, we know that consistency—especially when it’s hard—is what drives real change. So let’s talk about why winter consistency matters, what it does for your body and mind, and how to make sure you keep showing up. Why Consistency in Winter is Crucial Your body doesn’t know it’s winter. It only knows what you do. Skipping weeks at a time means reversing hard-earned progress, both physically and mentally. Research shows that regular strength training improves insulin sensitivity, bone density, and cardiovascular health—even more so when done consistently over time (Westcott, 2012). Momentum matters. Winter is also when stress, low mood, and fatigue creep in for many of us. Exercise has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, thanks to the release of endorphins and the regulation of stress hormones like cortisol (Harvard Health, 2021). So if you're feeling flat—this is the time to move, not pull back. How Staying Active in Winter Helps You Long-Term You avoid the restart trap Every time you stop, it takes longer to get back to where you were. Consistent training keeps your baseline high and avoids the start-again cycle that leaves you feeling frustrated. You build real discipline Motivation will come and go. But the ability to show up regardless—that’s discipline. And discipline spills over into every part of life: work, family, even how you show up for yourself. You’re ahead come spring Want to feel strong, energised, and confident when the layers come off? That starts now. While others are hibernating, you’re laying the groundwork. How to Stay Consistent When It’s Cold and Dark Set a realistic routine Don’t aim for perfection—aim for doable. Three sessions a week with intention is better than chasing five and quitting by June. Train with people who lift you up Community keeps you accountable. It’s easier to leave the house when you know someone’s expecting you. At Rebuild, you're never training alone. Track your progress Strength, reps, conditioning—see the data change. That’s motivation you can measure. Focus on how it makes you feel Training isn’t just for summer bodies. It’s for better sleep, less stress, more patience with the kids, and feeling like you again. Winter isn’t the enemy. It’s the proving ground. So show up. Not just for summer. Not just for weight loss. But for strength, stability, and the version of you that doesn’t give up when it gets hard. We’ll be here, with the lights on, the music up, and a team that’s ready to help you stay consistent—whatever the weather.
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