by Kate Johns

Created on: October 07, 2008   Last Updated: October 14, 2008

When it comes to winter you feel sort of like a hibernating bear cuddling up to the fire, eating unhealthy fattening foods, and watching lots of reality television. While it feels comfortable to cuddle up in a soft, warm blanket eating foods that make you feel good, it is also a stellar way to gain a lot of weight. When springtime rolls around, you have to try to lose that weight really fast to fit into that swimsuit. But this winter, you don't have to worry about gaining weight and then having to diet to lose it all.

Here is a guide to avoid gaining winter weight so that you will fit into that summer bathing suit.

Thinking of going away for a warm weather vacation, or even a lukewarm weather weekend would do? Dangle that proverbial carrot on a stick for the entire winter. Set a long term goal of if I don't gain any weight, then once February comes I will go away for a weekend where I have to wear a swimsuit-in public. That way, you are setting a goal to not gain weight and stay in shape allowing you to wear a swimsuit during the cold winter months. This way, you will be keeping a major reality check on your body all winter.

Set an exercise plan for the entire winter, and stick to it. Even though you will be super busy with holiday shopping, holiday parties and all that great food, exercise is a key to keeping the pounds off. Make a plan to work out three to five days a week for at least a half hour. By working out, you are doing something else to keep occupied, and you will be releasing positive endorphins that will make you feel better. You won't feel depressed, and have that lethargic wintry feeling. You will be burning off the calories and staying in great shape!

Get up and boogie! Joining a group activity such as a dance class, a yoga class, or a swim team, forces you to get off the couch and move around. This will make you feel better, like it really is sunny outside even though it's not. Just as long as the group isn't going out for cheesecake after class, this will help get you through the winter leaner and feeling sunnier!

Holiday parties are so much fun during the winter, now aren't they? But, because you are having so much fun, you don't notice all the high calorie foods you are eating. One of the best things to do is to wear clothing that is too tight. It doesn't have to be so tight, that you look sleazy. But wear slacks with a tight waistline, or a belt cinched up too close. This way, you are ensuring that you can't possibly squeeze any more delicious cookies into that stomach.

Fill the cupboards and the refrigerator with fresh, healthy foods, not the fattening, calorie -packed ones. Make certain that you are eating foods that are healthy for the entire holiday season and the entire winter. Don't allow the cold, icy weather to be an excuse for eating foods that sabotage your springtime plans. While keeping those fresh foods at home, cut up celery and carrot sticks, and keep apples or grapes handy and ready to eat. This will ensure that you can just grab a healthy snack rather than eating the rest of the Thanksgiving stuffing at midnight.

Avoiding winter weight gain is simply a matter of staying on an exercise plan, keeping fresh foods home all winter long, and trying on that swimsuit from time to time to remind you of how you want to look great all winter long.

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