The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and, for many, an excuse to indulge. Between holiday parties, family gatherings, and festive treats, maintaining fitness can feel like a challenge. But December doesn’t have to derail your health goals. Instead, it can be the perfect opportunity to try some creative fitness challenges that keep you motivated and feeling great through the holidays. Below are ten fun and actionable December fitness challenge ideas that anyone can try.
12 Days of Fitness Challenge
A spin on the classic “12 Days of Christmas,” this challenge builds up your workouts gradually over 12 days. Each day introduces a new exercise while incorporating the previous ones, creating a fun and cumulative workout routine.
How It Works
- Day 1: Perform a 1-minute plank.
- Day 2: Add 10 push-ups to the plank.
- Day 3: Include 15 squats alongside the previous exercises.
- Continue adding new exercises each day until Day 12, creating a complete workout routine.
This progressive challenge not only builds strength and endurance but also keeps things fresh and exciting.
Holiday Steps Challenge
Walking is an underrated form of exercise, and December is the perfect month to lace up your shoes for daily step goals. This challenge focuses on hitting a specific step count every day while incorporating holiday fun.
Ideas to Make It Fun
- Set a daily goal (e.g., 10,000 steps).
- Go for evening walks to enjoy Christmas lights in your neighborhood.
- Track your progress using a pedometer or fitness app.
Walking can be a great low-impact workout that keeps you active while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Ornament Workout Challenge
This holiday-themed workout game adds an element of surprise to your fitness routine. Write different exercises on slips of paper and attach them to ornaments on your Christmas tree.
How to Play
- Choose an ornament each day and perform the exercise written on it.
- Examples: “20 burpees,” “30 jumping jacks,” or “15 lunges.”
- Invite family members to join in for added fun and accountability.
This challenge keeps workouts spontaneous and festive while engaging the whole family in healthy habits.
Festive Yoga Flow
Yoga is perfect for staying calm and centered during the busy holiday season. This challenge involves committing to daily yoga sessions tailored to the season’s theme.
Suggested Routine
- Practice for 10–15 minutes every day.
- Include poses like Tree Pose, Snowflake Stretch, or Warrior Pose to channel holiday vibes.
- Use relaxing holiday music or scents like peppermint or cinnamon candles to enhance the experience.
Yoga promotes flexibility, reduces stress, and brings balance to your body and mind during December’s hustle and bustle.
Winter Wonderland Cardio
Cardio doesn’t have to be boring during December—make it fun by incorporating winter-themed activities into your routine.
Activities to Try
- Ice skating for leg strength and coordination.
- Sledding with friends or kids for a playful workout.
- Dance workouts featuring holiday tunes to get your heart rate up while having fun.
These activities combine fitness with festive joy, making it easier to stay committed without feeling like exercise is a chore.
Snowball Fight HIIT Challenge
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is perfect for quick and effective workouts during busy days. This challenge uses fun snowball fight-inspired movements to keep things exciting.
Sample Workout
- Medicine ball slams (throwing snowballs).
- Jump squats (dodging snowballs).
- Short sprints (running to safety).
Repeat these exercises for 20–30 minutes in intervals for a complete workout that mimics the energy of a snowball fight.
Advent Calendar Fitness
Turn a traditional advent calendar into a fitness tool by using it for daily workout inspiration instead of chocolates or treats.
How It Works
- Assign a workout or exercise to each day leading up to Christmas. Examples: “30-second plank,” “20 push-ups,” or “1-mile walk.”
- Increase intensity as Christmas approaches for an extra challenge.
- Write each activity on a slip of paper or use an actual calendar with fitness prompts behind each door.
This approach keeps you motivated daily while adding anticipation to your workouts.
Cozy Couch Stretch Challenge
December evenings are often spent curled up on the couch watching holiday movies—but that doesn’t mean you can’t sneak in some stretches!
Stretch Ideas
- Hamstring stretches while seated on the couch.
- Shoulder rolls and neck stretches during commercial breaks.
- Foam rolling for muscle recovery after workouts.
This gentle challenge promotes flexibility and relaxation without requiring you to leave the comfort of your home.
Candy Cane Core Challenge
Targeting your core muscles can be both fun and rewarding during December with this candy cane-themed challenge. Use daily ab exercises to strengthen your midsection while staying festive.
Example Routine
- Plank holds (start at 30 seconds and increase gradually).
- Russian twists (use a candy cane as a prop).
- Leg raises for lower abs engagement.
Keep track of your progress throughout the month by increasing reps or duration as you go along.
Charity Miles Challenge
Combine fitness with giving back by participating in the Charity Miles Challenge, where your physical activity contributes to charitable causes through apps like Charity Miles.
How It Works
- Download the Charity Miles app and choose a charity you want to support.
- Set a mileage goal for December (e.g., run/walk/jog 50 miles).
- Share your progress with friends and family to inspire others to join in.
This challenge not only helps you stay fit but also spreads the holiday spirit by contributing to meaningful causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some benefits of participating in December fitness challenges?
December fitness challenges help maintain health goals during the holidays, reduce stress, increase energy levels, and bring joy through engaging activities.
Can I modify these challenges if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely! Adjust intensity levels or durations based on your fitness level, and focus on consistency rather than perfection.
How do I stay motivated during these challenges?
Set small achievable goals, track progress, involve friends or family, and reward yourself for completing milestones.
Are these challenges suitable for kids?
Many of these challenges, such as Ornament Workout and Winter Wonderland Cardio, are kid-friendly and can be adapted for younger participants.
Can I mix multiple challenges together?
Yes! Combining activities like yoga with cardio or steps challenges can keep your routine diverse and exciting.
Conclusion
Staying active during December doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle amid holiday festivities. Whether you choose yoga, HIIT workouts, or walking challenges, these fun ideas make fitness enjoyable and accessible for all levels. Start implementing one (or more) of these challenges today, and stay committed to your health goals while embracing the holiday cheer!
