If there’s one meal of the year where calories shouldn’t count, it’s Christmas day. Well, some could argue that Thanksgiving should be one of these meals too, so let’s say if there are two meals during the year where calories shouldn’t count, it is Thanksgiving and Christmas. A Christmas meal comes with so many delicious meats, carb-loaded sides and decorative treats on offer, all bets are off the table and wearing your favorite sweat pants to the table is a must–we hope Grandma doesn’t mind. Plus, you can always burn it off later.
Remember it takes 3500 calories to gain a pound of fat, but if you eat a balanced diet most of the time, there’s no reason why you need to be choosey with the food you pick to eat with family for Christmas. But… in case you are wondering what it takes to burn off some of your favorite Christmas treats, then keep on reading.
Christmas Ham
Christmas Ham isn’t too calorically dense. The thing to watch out for with ham, especially honey baked, is the sugar and sodium. To burn off your Christmas Ham go ahead and take your favorite dog on a 30 minute quick paced walk, take 30 minutes to dance to your favorite Christmas songs or hop on a rower for 15 minutes.
Cheesy Potatoes
It is the carb-dense sides that you need to watch out for. A serving of cheesy potatoes can get up to as high as 550 calories. Oof, your best bet here is to not worry about it and eat them. Or maybe try a smaller serving. However, if you want to know what type of workout it will take to burn off 550 calories. How does performing ten burpees for 55 minutes sound? Awful right? You might be better off going for an hour run. Plus, you’ll have an excellent carb supply to help fuel your run!
Egg Nog
This delightful creamy treat of a drink is packed with calories. Of course, if you are in the boat that hates egg nog, then nothing to read here. If you are someone that does enjoy a glass, keep in mind that some brands can pack up to 400 calories in one serving, especially if you are adding any alcohol to your sipper. Jumping into your favorite spin class though can help you burn off this drink in no time.
Apple Pie
How nice is a slice of warm apple pie? How about making it a la mode? A slice of apple pie can clock in at around 250-300 calories, and if you are throwing some ice cream on top, then add in another 100-150 calories. Burn off this tasty dessert by hitting the gym for a heavy lifting day with some HIIT intervals thrown in as well.
If you are looking for some Christmas workout inspiration, then check out our 12 Days of Christmas workout.
