Holiday season fitness myths we need to forget
The holiday season is officially here - food spreads, late nights, bottomless bubbles, family chaos, and (if we’re honest) the occasional side of guilt.
It’s that time of year when fitness advice gets loud and messy: “Don’t eat that!” … “Burn it off tomorrow!” … “You’ll lose all your progress if you take a week off!” 🙄
Here’s the thing: none of that is true. Your goals don’t get thrown out the window just because December rolls around. What does get in the way is the pressure, the extremes, and the all or nothing mindset that makes the holidays way more stressful than they need to be.
So let’s bust some of the biggest myths about training and nutrition during the festive season - so you can relax, enjoy yourself, and roll into the new year without the “I need to start over” energy.
Myth 1: One big meal will ruin your progress
Reality: Progress comes from what you do consistently, not what you do occasionally. A Christmas lunch or work dinner isn’t going to undo months of hard work. You don’t need to “make up for it” - you just get back to your normal routine and keep moving forward.
Myth 2: You need to train harder to ‘earn’ your food
Reality: Exercise is never a punishment. It’s about feeling strong, energised, and capable. You don’t have to “burn off” pavlova or train double the next day. Your body deserves fuel, no matter what’s on your plate.
Myth 3: You can’t enjoy treats if you want results
Reality: Cutting yourself off completely usually backfires. Balance looks like having your favourite seasonal foods and still making space for protein, veggies, and hydration. When you allow yourself treats without guilt, they stop feeling like this huge “forbidden” thing.
Myth 4: Missing workouts will set you back completely
Reality: Consistency matters, but so does flexibility. If your schedule is jam-packed, a walk, an at-home bodyweight workout, or even a stretch before bed still counts. Something is always better than nothing, and a week off won’t erase your strength.
Myth 5: Holiday season = all or nothing
Reality: You don’t need to choose between “perfect routine” and “total chaos.” A middle ground exists. Think: shorter workouts, mindful meals, a little more rest, and letting go of the guilt. Progress and fun can coexist.
Remember...
The holidays aren’t a threat to your goal. They’re a chance to practice balance in the real world. When you let go of the myths, the “all or nothing” mindset disappears, and you’ll head into January already winning.
Because the truth is, you don’t need a new year, new me. You just need a consistent me, who knows how to enjoy life and make progress. And that can start any time x
Love TWS coach Bronte x