Dr. Ian Smith Shares Festive Fitness Tips

Think you have no choice but to experience a bit of holiday weight gain? Think again! Dr. Ian Smith, founder of the 50 Million Pound Challenge, "Celebrity Fit Club" expert and best-selling author, thinks we need to reverse our thinking and, instead of resigning ourselves to weight gain, "get a jump start on the New Year."

And to do just that, he shared a few of his favorite festive fitness activities with That's Fit.

"There's a lot of shopping this time of year," said Smith, "both pre- and post-Christmas. One thing I always do is park as far away from the actual store as possible. And carry a pedometer -- we give them away at our Web site -- and measure your steps." Smith recommended getting 10,000 steps a day, and trying to get in 2000-3000 while shopping.

Another thing to take advantage of is the temperature. "If you live in the right climate, go out and build a snowman! You burn more calories in cold weather," said Smith. "Shoveling is great, but if you're not already in shape, you need to be careful."

Finally, make a habit of walking around your neighborhood, said Smith. "I know the terrain can be tough, but bundle up and try to get in a mile walk every other day. Short bursts of exercise in the cold weather can be awesome -- the biggest impediment is just getting outside because we're so drawn to being indoors this time of year."

Interested in more festive fitness? Check out these gift suggestions!