With only a few days remaining in 2011, most of us are just trying to survive this holiday season.

The cold, dark days; the social obligations; the tempting cookies and chocolates in our faces no matter where we turn are quite extraordinary. And with so many things working against us, how do we avoid winter weight gain?

The theme with my patients and clients during the winter/holiday season is maintenance.

There is no doubt that it is extremely hard to try to lose any weight between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. BUT maintenance is possible with a little effort.The first step is to figure out why weight gain happens. From my standpoint it’s quite simple. Most comfortable, weather friendly activities such as running, triathlons, tennis, golf, walking to work, etc. get harder to do outside in winter months – especially here in NYC. Without races, court or tee times holding one accountable; people’s activity levels tend to severely diminish or even stop.

The change in weather is further complicated by the proximity to additional calories that begins around Halloween.  Many food options become available during October, November and December that simply are not available during other times of the year.

So why weight gain happens in the winter /holiday season is simple – people are moving less and eating more. But that does not mean you cannot enjoy the season and maintain your current weight and fitness levels.

Below are a few tips to maintain your weight this holiday season:

1. Replace your Summer and Spring Activities – Especially triathletes and runners – hit the weights! Nothing keeps the fat off like strength training. If you insist on remaining cardio queens throughout the winter, however, gear up and purchase long cycling pants, get booties, get an ear band.

2. If you know social obligations will prevent you from your traditional evening workout, get up early and hit the gym. There’s a reason 6am spin classes exist.

3. Avoid excessive liquid calories – You do NOT need that peppermint mocha just because Starbucks says you do. The excessive booze certainly won’t keep your pants from getting tighter. Drink less by alternating with water and consumer your liquid calories and carbs wisely.

4. At parties,  go for the veggie platter first. If you shove a handful of bell peppers, carrots and celery down your throat before anything else, believe me, not much more will fit in your stomach.

- By Sarah Currie MS RD