By JOANNA PRISCO via GOOD MORNING AMERICA
With so many holiday events revolving around food and cocktails, it's easy to add on the extra pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. But that doesn't have to be the rule.
Katrina Hodgson and Karena Dawn, hosts of "Toned Up," a new fitness series premiering on Bravo on Jan. 2, 2014, shared with ABC News some of their best strategies for balancing the season's indulgences with healthy choices.
1. Stick to a Routine as Best You Can. "Having a solid plan in place, even if you veer off track a little, is a great strategy to stay healthy through the season," said Hodgson. "Get active at least four times a week, and include protein with your breakfast — both will give your metabolism a boost that lasts all day. We love making pancakes for breakfast with Perfect Fit Protein instead of flour. They're fluffy, delicious and filled with the nutrients your body needs."
2. Exercise in the Morning. "Moving your body first thing in the morning sets the day right and helps your body stay stress-free during this busy season," Dawn told ABC News. "Plus, getting your workout done and out of the way early in the day ensures nothing comes between you and your fitness goals. A quick, 15-minute toning routine or walk will make a huge difference in your energy levels for the day. We call this our BootyCall, and we fit one in almost every morning."
3. Find Balance. Remember this time of year is all about enjoying yourself with friends and family. "Definitely don't deprive yourself of the things you love most about the season," said Hodgson. "Just be sure to stay on track during the days before and after the party. When you stick to a healthy lifestyle and stay consistent, you have wiggle room for a little indulgence here and there."
4. Bring Healthy Treats to the Party. "The minute someone invites you to a gathering, offer to bring a dish," Hodgson went on. "While this may not be an option for every gathering, it's always worth offering. This way you know the menu will include at least one waist-friendly dish." She also notes that it's easy to make healthy swaps when baking, such as using coconut oil instead of butter, natural sugars or stevia instead of sugar, and flour alternatives such as quinoa or almond flour. More examples are available on their fitness community site,Tone It Up.
5. Eat! "Don't make the mistake of not eating all day when you have a dinner party or event that night," said Dawn. Instead, stick to small, nutrient-dense meals throughout the day, including greens, lean protein, fruit and a bit of healthy fats. "This ensures you get the fuel you need without going overboard come dinnertime," she said. "The same thing goes for skipping meals the day after the event if you had a few too many treats. Don't do it! If you overindulged, don't stress about it. Let go of any negative feelings, move on and just make healthier choices next time. Oh, and do a full body workout the next day."
6. Drink up ... on the Right Things. "If your body is dehydrated it literally cannot function, and it increases cravings too," Dawn told ABC News. "It's easy to forget to drink the water your body needs with all the holiday bustle, and particularly when the weather outside is chilly. But your body needs half its body weight in ounces daily -- if you weigh 150 pounds, get at least 75 ounces of water each day."
7. Start a New Tradition. Memorable moments are part of what make the holidays special, and the season offers a chance to create something new to look forward to each year, suggests the duo. "Whether you rally your friends to run a local 3K race, take your family for a neighborhood stroll after dinner or come up with your own signature dish, this is your chance to reinvent what this time of year means for you," said Hodgson.
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