This holiday season, we’re celebrating the 12 Days of Fitmas so you can stay healthy while rockin’ around the Christmas tree. Whether you explore all 12 activities and amenities or just need some fitness inspiration, take a look at our festive lineup here:

1. Head to the Gym—Safely

It’s time to get back to your happy place. While it’s normal to have anxiety about venturing out during the pandemic, gym safety is our number one priority here at Healthtrax. From wiping down machinery to wearing a proper face covering, we take your health and wellness seriously, so hitting the gym can still be your favorite activity of the day. In fact, doctors say gyms can actually help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by helping you stay healthy and boosting your immune system.

On the first day of Fitmas, take advantage of our Safe Start program. Stop in for a tour of our new protocols to see how Healthtrax can help you stay safe and strong this holiday season. With equipment repositioned for proper spacing and frequent sanitization, you can get your workouts in this month knowing Healthtrax has taken every precaution to keep us all healthy.

2. Take a Virtual Fitness Class

If you're not comfortable going to the gym or struggling to find time this holiday season, celebrate the second day of Fitmas by taking workout classes from the comfort of your own home. You’ll be able to get your sweat whenever it’s convenient for you.

Healthtrax provides a variety of on-demand and live-streamed virtual fitness classes. Some are hosted by our very own certified instructors, while others are offered in partnership with our friends at MOSSA and SilverSneakers. There’s truly something for everyone, so no matter what you choose, virtual fitness classes can help you look good and feel good.

3. Try Our Active Aging Programs

Having a healthy exercise routine over the age of 60 is beneficial to your mind, body and spirit as you age. As little as 30 minutes a day can help improve and maintain your cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility while helping you maintain a balanced lifestyle.

On the third day of Fitmas, consider our Active Aging Program, designed specifically for older adults who understand the importance of staying active. With an array of virtual fitness classes and in-person training sessions, Healthtrax knows how to keep you moving and grooving this season while matching your comfort level. Classes and trainers will motivate you to stay on top of your individual wellness goals.

4. Do Some Cardio

Have you mixed cardio into your fitness routine lately? On the fourth day of Fitmas, give it a try. The list of benefits goes on for miles—just like you will. Adding a 30-minute walk to your routine, jumping on an elliptical, or mastering the Stairmaster are just a few ways to incorporate cardio to your fitness regimen. This will help your body burn more calories while strengthening your heart and building muscle. You’ll sleep better at night and even feel an overall mood boost throughout your day too. So make time for cardio a few days a week—your heart will thank you.

5. Focus on Strength Training

Strength training comes in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re powerlifting or just ending your workout with a few lunges, any form of strength training is beneficial to your overall health. The American Heart Association recommends strength training at least twice a week.

If you’re not sure where to start, there are many ways to incorporate strength training into your routine that don’t require weights. Resistance workouts, such as abdominal crunches and pushups, are easy ways to train your muscles with no machines or equipment at all. This makes it easy to do at home too, so on the fifth day of Fitmas, focus on your strength.

Need some guidance? Healthtrax offers personal training services to teach you everything you need to know about safe strength training.

6. Take a Mind Body Class

This time of year is filled with family and friends, but prepping and planning the holidays can also lead to stress—especially during our new normal, when the holidays may look a little different for everyone. Exercise can be a major stress reliever in our everyday lives, and incorporating the mind and spirit into your fitness routine can help you stay calm and centered throughout the holidays.

Yoga, Barre, Pilates, Qigong and Tai Chi are great ways to benefit your body and your brain, so on the sixth day of Fitmas, try a Mind Body class. Taught in person and virtually by our certified instructors, these classes may be just what the doctor ordered. No matter your level of experience, each Mind Body class will help you de-stress.

7. Try Trax Training

If you need some guidance, or maybe a little motivation to get you to the gym, working with a personal trainer is a great way to maintain your fitness goals and start seeing results. At Healthtrax, you have the opportunity to work with trained professionals who are dedicated to helping you create completely customized workout plans. Not only will you reach your goals faster, but you’ll learn how to avoid injury. And the best part? A number-one fan is always cheering you on while you fight through that last rep.

8. Get Creative at Home

Not ready to hit the gym quite yet, but eager to maintain your workout routine? It’s time to get creative on the eighth day of Fitmas.

At-home workouts can include a number of things: going for a walk or a run outside when the weather allows, using bodyweight workouts to build strength and investing in a set of dumbbells to add a bit more resistance to your routines. Whichever you choose, it’s all about thinking outside of the box. Here are a couple examples:

Bulgarian split squats are a great way to work your legs, abs and back. You can try these at home using any sturdy table-height chair in place of a bench. If you don’t have any dumbbells, grab a stack of books or a case of water if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge.

Wish you had a cable machine to work those shoulders? Invest in resistance bands and hook them onto any doorframe for an easy, at-home version. Getting creative while working out will keep you engaged and challenged making the most of your at-home gym. Find some recommended pieces of equipment here.

9. Grab a Workout Buddy

Working out with a partner is equal parts motivational and fun. Whether it’s going for a run together or spotting one another on a bench, it’s a no-brainer that finding a (socially distant) fitness pal can be a great addition to your routine. Create challenges for one another and get competitive—all in good fun, of course. Turning your gym session into a mini competition can bring out a side of you that can run farther, balance better or lift heavier than you ever thought you could.

At Healthtrax, we offer complimentary guest passes for our members. Bring a buddy and motivate each other as best you can—because that’s what it’s all about!

10. Go for a Swim

On the tenth day of Fitmas, do something different and jump in the pool. Swimming can benefit everyone, from kids to seniors, and is great for your overall health. Swimming gets your heart rate up, works many muscles groups simultaneously and is easier on your joints than pounding the pavement. No matter the temperature outside, swimming a few laps in a heated pool at select Healthtrax locations is sure to warm you up this holiday season.

11. Customize Your Workout Plan

Getting to know your health history is important to helping you set and maintain fitness goals. Whether it’s being aware of medical conditions that affect you physically or knowing the limits of how hard you can push yourself, reviewing your health history can be beneficial to your fitness journey.

Ready to take the plunge into a healthier lifestyle? Get off on the right foot with Healthy Start from Healthtrax. Work with a personal trainer, create a wellness program customized to your goals and take advantage of all the amenities right here at Healthtrax.

12. Relax & Recover

On the twelfth day of Fitmas, take some time to unwind—with HydroMassage, of course. After a killer workout, it’s important to pay attention to rest and recovery. HydroMassage chairs at select Healthtrax locations offer a full-body, deep-tissue massage specifically designed for muscle recovery. So, after 11 days of fitness, now is the time to reward yourself with some well-deserved recovery and relaxation.

This busy holiday season, get creative with your fitness routine to reach your wellness goals. If you’re participating in the 12 days of Fitmas, let us know by connecting with us on Facebook or Instagram!

12 Days of Fitmas: Have a Healthy Holiday