The holidays are coming, and you know what that means... your fitness routine is about to get completely derailed. Between family gatherings, work parties, travel plans, and that never-ending to-do list, staying consistent with your workouts feels nearly impossible. But here's the thing - you don't have to choose between your holiday commitments and your fitness goals. The key is figuring out whether small group training or solo workouts will actually stick during this crazy time of year. Let's be real for a second. You've probably tried both approaches before, and maybe you're still not sure which one works better for you. That's totally normal! The truth is, both have their place, but when it comes to surviving the holiday season with your fitness goals intact, one might be your secret weapon.

Let me guess... you're sitting there making a list of reasons why you can't work out during the holidays. "Too busy," "too cold," "too many parties," "gym is too crowded," "kids are home from school." Stop right there. I've heard every excuse in the book from Portland clients over the years, and here's what I've learned: The people who stay fit during the holidays aren't superhuman. They just stop making excuses and start getting creative. Instead of waiting for perfect conditions (which will never come), they embrace community-based workouts that actually make the holidays more enjoyable, not more stressful. Ready to ditch the excuses and discover fitness options hiding in plain sight around Portland? Let's go.

You've probably noticed it too. Your friends are suddenly more excited about their workouts than they've been in years. Your neighbor is walking taller, moving better, and has this new confidence in their step. And when you ask them what's different, they keep mentioning something about their "performance fitness studio." So what's all the buzz about? Here in Southern Maine, adults over 40 are discovering something that's changing how they think about fitness entirely. And honestly? It's about time.

Let's be real, when that first snowstorm hits Portland and you're looking at months of freezing temps ahead, your motivation to stay active can disappear faster than a Whoopie Pie at a bake sale. You're not alone in this struggle. Every November, I see the same pattern: clients who were crushing their summer fitness goals suddenly find themselves making excuses about icy sidewalks and 20-degree mornings. But here's the thing, winter doesn't have to be the season where your fitness goals go to hibernate. Portland, Maine actually has some incredible resources to keep you moving through the coldest months. You just need to know where to look and how to stay motivated when Mother Nature isn't exactly cooperating.

Let's be real for a minute... you're juggling work deadlines, family responsibilities, and somehow trying to squeeze in a workout that actually makes a difference. Sound familiar? You're not alone in this struggle. Most of our clients walk through our doors asking the exact same question: "I barely have time to breathe: should I invest in personal training or try small group classes?" Here's the thing: both options can work for busy schedules, but they work differently. The key is figuring out which approach fits your specific lifestyle, goals, and let's be honest... your sanity level.

The holidays are a time for celebration, connection, and yes. Delicious food. However, if you're committed to your fitness journey, this season can feel like a battlefield of temptation. The good news? You don’t have to choose between enjoying the holidays and staying on track with your goals. 🎯 1. Shift Your Mindset: It’s Not All or Nothing The biggest trap people fall into during the holidays is the “all or nothing” mindset. You miss a workout, overeat at a party, or indulge in dessert—and suddenly it's, "I'll start again in January." Stop. One meal doesn't derail all of your progress. Do your best which is better than just throwing in the towel 🥗 2. Prioritize Protein and Veggies First Before diving into the tasty carbohydrates. Prioritize Protein and Veggies first before consuming other foods to help with appetite control throughout your meal. 🧠 3. Use the "One Plate Rule" Instead of going back for seconds (or thirds), go for just one plate and fill it with what you want(can be anything). 🍷 4. Drink Smart (Yes, Even Alcohol) Set a limit ahead of time and don't deviate from the plan. Be sure to alternate a glass of water between drinks to maintain hydration and make it easier to limit consumption of alcohol 🧁 5. Don’t “Save Calories” All Day Skipping meals to prepare for the big meals usually doesn't end well. Eat like normal so at the end of the day, you don't feel the need to binge eat to make up for the lack of eating during the day. 🏋️‍♂️ 6. Stay Active (Even If It’s Not a Full Workout) During the holidays, your regular training schedule might take a hit. That’s OK. Focus on movement, not perfection. This could be a 10-15 minute workout. A walk after a meal. Any movement is better than no movement. Holiday season will be upon us soon so be sure to implement these strategies so you can stay on track with your fitness goals and also enjoy the holidays!

Summer is a magical time. Family trips, ice cream runs, late nights, and long days of juggling kids' activities. But once the school bell rings again, many parents find themselves breathing a small sigh of relief… and then glancing in the mirror, wondering, “Now what about me?” If you're a parent looking to reclaim your fitness post-summer, you're not alone. The transition into the school year can be the perfect time to restart your wellness journey. Here are some realistic, sustainable tips to help you get back into shape—with your sanity intact.

Can you believe we’re already past the halfway mark of 2025?  It feels like the year just started—and yet here we are. July is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and check in on the goals you set back in January.