Walk it Off

One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to keep your body active during the holiday season is to go for daily walks. Make it a goal to get in at least 20 minutes of walking time every day. Go at the fastest pace that is still reasonably comfortable for you. To get an idea of how many calories you can burn walking, consider that a 150-lb. woman walking 1 mile in 20 minutes will burn an average of 80 calories. Not bad!{relatedarticles}

Consistency is important for any fitness program, including walking, so create a schedule that works for you, perhaps every evening before or after dinner. Bring a friend or family member along, or go it alone, with or without an iPod and the family dog. The point is to get your heart rate elevated. You can also relieve some of the stress and anxiety that can build up after spending too many hours waiting in line to buy gifts for everyone on your list.

Use a Fitness Video as Your Guide

If you're someone who benefits from a bit more direction, but you don't have time to make it to the gym or fitness studio for an hour-long aerobics class, choose a 20-minute fitness video as your guide. Or use a few segments of other videos combined together to focus on your needs and goals. Not sure where to begin? Hit the local library to see if there are any fitness DVDs or ask your friends if they have a title they would be willing to loan you for a week or so.