Holidays are a blessing and a curse. They can bring the joy of reuniting with loved ones, watching a toddler open gifts and endless celebration. They can also add lots of things to your "to do" list making your workouts seem next to impossible. How can you stay on track with your workouts with all of the added things that you have to get done before the holidays?

The best strategy is to make a plan. Let me say that again...make a plan. And not only do you need to make a plan, but you have to stick with it. Write your workouts on your calendar as appointments that cannot be missed except for illness or true emergencies. At this time of year more than any other staying on track with your workouts is of utmost important. Here are some reasons why:

1. Exercise allows you to get out your frustrations in a healthy way and reduces your stress level.

2. By reducing stress and allowing you some "me" time, exercise makes you a better mom, spouse and friend as well as a more productive employee.

3. Contrary to people who say they are too tired to exercise, regular exercise energizes you.

4. Exercise burns calories which will allow you to indulge a little more without feeling guilty.

5. Regular cardio exercise is good for your heart. And after all, if this is the season of giving, shouldn't you do something nice for yourself too? There is not a better gift than a healthy heart!

Many of us use the excuse that we will get back on track or get started with exercise once the holidays are over and the time for New Years resolutions rolls around. Then all the temptations of the holidays will be over and you'll be able to be more committed to working out and eating healthy. But...statistics show that you will have 3-5 extra pounds as well with that approach. Why not start now and keep those extra pounds at bay and make a renewed commitment to carry your healthy lifestyle into the New Year?

The benefits of staying on track with your workouts or even starting a new program for that matter will far outweigh the time and effort it takes to get to the gym, the track, the treadmill or wherever you work out. Think about this; why not give it a try this year? If you don't feel better, have more energy, less stress and a couple pounds less under your belt at the start of the New Year, you can always go back to your old habits when next year's holidays roll around. Trust me; I think you'll like the payoff!