Keep your waistline in check throughout the holidays with these five strategies from fitness expert Brent Bishop.

1. Invest in a personal trainer or group training. Having a coach enables you to push further, train more effectively and experience better results. There are also many cost-effective ways to invest in training, such as gathering friends together for a small personal training group.

2. If you need to get a gym membership, now is the time. You can often find gym deals prior to the start of the new year. Also, ensure you are realistic. If your goal is to work out five days per week starting in January, a practical goal to begin with would be two or three days each week in December.

3. Attend parties on a full stomach. After the party, you’ll be thankful you didn’t replace those calories you burned off in your workout.

4. Excuse-proof your fitness plan. Keep a stocked gym bag in your car 
or at the office at all times. You’ll reduce your chances of skipping your workout by eliminating that old “I’m not prepared” defence.

5. Buddy up. Research shows that being accountable and having support significantly increases your potential and rate of success. Find a partner to train with and commit to the journey together.

This story was originally titled "Fix it in Five" in the December 2012 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!