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Stay Slim Through New Year's

Pie duty will be no problem for you if you use these five stick-with-it tactics.

By David Kirsch

With the holidays almost over, visions of turkey, gravy, stuffing, and pumpkin pie might be dancing in your head, but don't let all the good habits you've cultivated this year go to "waist." There is a sensible way to navigate the season's parties and dinners and still stay true to your diet and fitness goals. Following this combination of smart eating, workout, and stress-busting tips will help ensure that the only thing getting stuffed this holiday season is the bird.

•Be thankful. Take a minute to recognize the positive things you've done for yourself such as quitting smoking, eating better, or joining a gym. It can help you battle weak moments when you want to skip your workouts or take home all the leftovers.

•Set the stage. You know you're headed to your Great-Aunt Doris's for dinner, and you can't wait to dig into her garlic mashed potatoes. So why not lift weights or go for a run beforehand? Not only is it an excellent way to show your body a little gratitude for getting you through the year, it adds a bit more caloric room in your diet for splurges.

•Separate food from family. No, I don't mean you shouldn't eat and celebrate with everyone; just don't let all those family issues that tend to crop up at this time of year interfere with your wellness goals. Overeating because you're anxious, nervous, stressed, or angry hurts only you. Try to keep your thoughts about--and reactions to--your family and friends independent of your enjoyment of food.

•Never go to a party hungry. That's not to say you should have two dinners, but eating a small protein-packed meal at home, such as half a peanut butter sandwich, will keep you from stalking the buffet.

•Rethink exercise. Some people just give up on working out until January, while others get stressed trying to rigidly stick with what they've done all year long. Neither approach is realistic. You need exercise to help you combat the stress and weight gain that come with the season. Instead of trying to squeeze in your hour-long workouts, do what you can--even if it's only five, 10, or 20 minutes. Everything counts!