Between hunting down the perfect gifts, navigating crowded malls, and checking off your to-do list, holiday errands can feel like a chore. But what if you could turn all that hustle and bustle into a way to burn calories and stay on track with your weight loss goals? Here are some fun and creative ways to sneak exercise into your holiday shopping routine and keep things merry and bright.
Park Farther Away
Instead of circling the lot for the closest parking spot, park at the farther away. Walking those extra steps adds up quickly and gives you a mini cardio session before you even step foot in the store. According to Harvard Health, a brisk walk can burn around 100-150 calories in just 30 minutes, depending on your weight.
Pro Tip: Keep your pace brisk and pump your arms for an extra calorie-burning boost. Use a fitness tracker to monitor your steps and aim for 10,000 steps during your shopping trip.
Power Walk Between Stores
Skip the slow window browsing and pick up the pace. Power walking between stores is a great way to elevate your heart rate, helping you burn calories while tackling your gift list. Mall walking can burn around 200 calories per hour—more if you’re carrying shopping bags.
Pro Tip: Turn your shopping spree into an interval workout. Alternate between brisk walking and short bursts of jogging if space allows.
Take the Stairs
Ditch the escalator or elevator and opt for the stairs instead. Climbing stairs is an excellent workout for your legs, glutes, and core, and it burns a significant number of calories. Just 10 minutes of stair climbing can burn around 100 calories.
Pro Tip: If you’re shopping in a multi-story mall, make a point to take the stairs every time. Bonus points if you’re carrying your holiday haul!
Turn Your Shopping Bags Into Weights
As your bags fill up, don’t just carry them—use them! Try bicep curls or shoulder lifts as you walk back to your car. You’re not just shopping for gifts; you’re sculpting those arms.
Pro Tip: Balance the weight evenly between both arms to avoid strain. If your bags are heavy, consider this your weightlifting session for the day.
Stretch While You Wait
Holiday lines are inevitable, but standing still doesn’t have to be. Use the time to sneak in some stretches. Try calf raises, shoulder rolls, or gentle twists to keep your body limber.
Pro Tip: Focus on engaging your core while you stretch. This can help improve your posture and give your abs a subtle workout.
Add a Weighted Backpack
If you’re shopping with a backpack, use it to your advantage by adding some weight. A weighted backpack can increase the intensity of your walking workout, helping you burn more calories while strengthening your core and back muscles.
Pro Tip: Pack snacks, water, or even small gifts to keep the weight practical and purposeful.
Turn Wrapping Gifts Into a Core Workout
When you’re done shopping, don’t forget that wrapping gifts can also be a calorie-burning activity. Instead of sitting at a table, try wrapping presents on the floor. Engage your core by sitting cross-legged or kneeling. Reach, twist, and stretch as you wrap to keep your body moving.
Pro Tip: Set a timer for short bursts of wrapping followed by a quick set of exercises like planks or push-ups.
Final Thoughts
Holiday errands can feel overwhelming, but they’re also a chance to sneak in some fitness and self-care. By turning your shopping trips into workouts, you’re not just crossing off your gift list—you’re giving yourself the gift of better health.
So, grab your comfy shoes, map out your shopping route, and hit the stores with purpose. Who knew burning calories could be so festive? Happy holidays—and happy sweating!
Stay fit while checking off your Christmas to-do list. Book an appointment today for a personalized weight loss plan that fits your busy holiday schedule and helps you make the most of every festive moment.
