Stay fit while you feast this Christmas

It's during the quieter days of the festive season that two things happen: first, we get a little lazy with our training and second, TV companies get even lazier with their scheduling.

I don't know about you, but I've seen Rocky 3 enough times already.

Let's face it, we can all spare an hour or two away from Christmas TV without missing much. So on the big day itself take the time to get some fresh air. Get the family to come with you, enjoy some relaxing time together and work up an appetite, walk off the meal or both. An hour's brisk walk can burn off up to 300 calories - so you don't have to say no to Christmas pudding at the end of the meal.

On Boxing Day, while the rest of the nation is having a lie-in, why not make the most of the empty streets and parks and head out for another winter wander, a run or bike ride?

If you're looking for an alternative (but equally full-on) workout, hit the sales. You can burn up to 500 calories during a shopping trip. If you overdid it the night before, all the above will do more to clear your head than a morning of X Factor reruns ever will.

If outdoor excursions are not your cup of tea, local health clubs often run offers during the festive season. By getting in early you can get a good deal, and you also get to feel smug about being ahead of the game when everyone else returns in January.

Or, for those of you who fondly remember those days at school when you used to play sports, check out Sport England's website.

Many sports are running "back to" schemes looking to get people to start playing again. So if you're not really up for the whole "brand new you" thing, maybe this is the year for the "good old you" thing instead.

David Higgins is co-founder of TenPilates (TenPilates.com).