Want to have a healthier Christmas? Read my top tips right this way...

Tis the season to be merry.

There’s no need to feel guilty when treating yourself to a sneaky glass of mulled wine or a mince pie this Christmas. I’ve got some great tips on how to have a balanced Christmas.

1) Get out on Christmas Day.

No, I'm not crazy. I know Christmas morning is known for a morning in PJs and chocolate but why not try something different? Why not arrange a Christmas scavenger hunt where the family can get involved? You'll be surprised at how many extra steps you may get hunting down Rudolph!

2) Ask your loved ones to not buy you chocolates or alcohol for gifts.

We've all heard of Christmas lists, but there's no harm telling close ones what you don't want. They should respect your decisions and get you an alternative gift.

3) Enjoy a quieter gym!

Make the most of having the freedom of not having to fight over dumbbells while the gym is a lot quieter over the festive period.

4) Ask Santa for a fitness tracker...

I believe a tracker can really help change your attitude to your activity levels. So maybe see if Santa has any budget left for a fitness tracker. Look out for cheaper prices this weekend too in the Black Friday sales.

5) Say no when you're full.

As I said before, Christmas is known for being the time to overindulge. Listen to your stomach and when you've had enough turn down that extra mince pie someone is offering you.

6) Make social gatherings more active.

Why not suggest something fun like mini golf or bowling for your works Christmas party? It will get you on your feet more than being sat down.

7) Look to Youtube for homeworks.

Gym on restricted set of opening times due to the bank holidays? There are 1000s of YouTube workouts out there. Mix it up too! Instead of doing the usual HIIT workout try a yoga workout instead.

8) Take healthier options for the buffet.

From Christmas turkey salads to a lighter option of desert, get searching on the internet (I recommend BBC's Good Food website) for some tasty recipes on what you can bring to the party.

9) Fill up on veg.

Whether you despise or love sprouts, fill your Christmas dinner up with veg, just be mindful of seasonings, sauces and any butter used.

10) And lastly, enjoy yourself.

Christmas is a time to be happy and filled with spending time with others. By taking a handful of these tips and putting them into practice will stop you completely overdoing it this Christmas.

If you want to hear more tricks and tips on how to avoid piling on the pounds this Christmas then sign up to my newsletters (we’ve got plenty more ideas up our sleeves!) or follow us on Instagram @thecurvecoach https://www.instagram.com/thecurvecoach/?hl=en-gb

FOLLOW @THECURVECOACH