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Why is it that the holidays often offer up a motivational lobotomy? Ah, yes, in-laws, too much food, vacations, cold temperatures, and, oh, in-laws. That "interesting" group of ingredients is enough to make the staunchest of fitness fanatics to consider sitting out a session or two from the gym. So, when the holidays are out to get you, keep the following simple things in mind.

First and Foremost
Enjoy what you are doing! It does not matter what the exercise guidelines say about getting this much or that much of a particular type of activity, if you don't enjoy engaging in a particular activity, the chances of successfully participating in that activity long-term are fairly small.

It's not an excuse; the holidays really are busier than normal. If your time is limited, focus on exercises that provide you with the most "bang for your buck." Instead of performing steady state cardiovascular exercise, try interval training. Interval training consists of periods of high and low intensity exercise. For example, if you prefer a recumbent bike, you would start with a low intensity interval (pedaling slowly) for 60 seconds and then pedal intensely for 20-30 seconds; repeat this sequence a number of times. This can be done when running, cycling, rowing, swimming, or with an elliptical machine.

If you strength or resistance train, focus primarily on complex movement or exercises. Complex exercises require movement across more than one joint and involve more than one muscle group to complete. If your time is limited, it does not make sense to perform a few leg extensions, bicep curls, or tricep extensions. Simple movement only requires movement across one joint and should not be the focus of your routine strength training efforts.

An added bonus of including more interval and strength training in your exercise program is the fact that high intensity exercise has the ability to increase your metabolic rate for 24-48 hours after exercise is complete. Low intensity and steady state cardiovascular exercise does not impact your metabolism in the same manner.

Maintenance
Sure, exercise can help you lose a couple of pounds here and there, but where it really excels is assisting in the maintenance of weight loss. Even in the face of a few extra calories over the holidays, regular physical activity can help prevent weight regain and keep that scale on target.

An Early Christmas Gift
With temperatures falling, it is nice to have quick and easy access to the equipment you need. If you ask me, this sounds like a pretty good reason to get a new gift. However, don't spend the money on an expensive new treadmill or elliptical machine unless you are positive you will use it for something other than a clothes hanger or to walk the dog without going outside. I would guess that 75 percent or more of the cardiovascular machines purchased for home use are collecting dust somewhere.

Anyway, you really do not need the fancy equipment at the gym. In fact, a simple set of dumbbells, a few plates, a barbell, and a bench can provide a better strength training workout than any combination of machines you would have access to at a health club. Additionally, it probably costs less than what you would pay for a gym membership.

Find a Partner
Regardless of the situation or season, nothing works quite as well to keep you on track as having a partner to exercise with. It always helps to have someone holding you accountable and depending on you to be there.

While the fast approaching holidays can throw a number of obstacles in your way, it is important to keep in mind that one of the best ways to deal with and overcome stress is through physical activity. Instead of rumbling with your in-laws once they have overstayed their welcome, grab your coat and take the dog for a walk.

For more tips and inspiration, visit the Exercise and Fitness Forum. Click here!