SETTING YOU UP FOR Q1 2026
Why December Doesn’t Have to Be a Setback
As the holidays roll in, it’s easy to slip into the “I’ll start fresh in January” mindset. Between parties, travel, and colder weather, consistency can feel harder to maintain — and before you know it, the new year arrives, and you’re trying to rebuild momentum from scratch. December doesn’t have to be a setback. Instead, it can be a strategic setup to feeling ready to tackle the pressure of the new year.
Here’s what you can focus on this holiday season to set yourself up for a strong start to 2026:
1. Reframe Your “All or Nothing” Mindset
The biggest trap people fall into this time of year is trying to do everything they think they “should” be doing. You don’t have to be perfect to make progress, just consistent.
Thinking of December as a “maintenance month” can help you reframe your mindset from having to do either everything or nothing at all. The goal is to keep your habits and routines alive.
For example, if your normal routine is 4 workouts per week, maybe it’s 2–3 per week instead.
Aim for 80% compliance with your goals each week. Feeling consistent in your routines will feel so much better than starting from scratch in the new year.
2. Identify Non-Negotiables
Pick two or three small health habits or goals that you want to make sure you accomplish, no matter how busy life gets. Doing small things over and over can lead to big change over time.
Here are some examples:
Drinking 80–100 oz of water daily
Aiming for 6-7k steps daily
Moving your body daily for at least 20 minutes
Eating a high-protein breakfast daily
These small daily commitments add up over time, create stability when your schedule feels unpredictable, and allow you to feel successful in your own goals during a busy season.
3. Train for Energy, Not PRs
Your workouts in December don’t need to be your strongest of the year. Focus on movement quality rather than PRs than trying to hit personal bests. Your body may be more exhausted this time of year, and you may feel less motivated to show up as the cold and darkness creep in. Instead of focusing on performing your absolute best in your workouts, focus on moving to feel good, maintain strength, and get your heart rate elevated.
4. Stay Aware, Not Restrictive
Holiday food doesn’t have to derail your goals. Practice mindful indulgence: enjoy your favorite seasonal treats, but stay connected to hunger cues and balance.
If you know you’ve got a big dinner planned, start the day with balanced meals rich in protein, fiber, and hydration.
Remember: one meal doesn’t define your month or stop your progress.
Take a look at your calendar and identify the days or nights you have holiday gatherings. Plan for those in advance. Meal prep nutrient-dense breakfasts and lunches to help keep your hunger cues in check. Practice mindfulness when attending parties with hor d’oeuvres or buffets. Staying mindful of hunger cues, keeping your goals at the front of your mind, and focusing on nutrient-dense meals 80% of the time will help you maintain your progress when surrounded by tempting holiday foods.
Bottom Line
December can be one of your greatest months of the year if you use it with intention. Remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about consistency. Your progress doesn’t have to stop for the holidays; it just may change shape.
At Pittsburgh Fitness Project…
We believe the end of the year is the perfect time to build consistency, reconnect with your goals, and enter the new year with a plan. Whether you’re joining a group class or looking for a more personalized training session, our coaches are here to help you stay strong through the holidays and beyond. Book a fitness assessment to get started and set yourself up for your strongest January yet.