It's also the season of holiday parties, calorie-laden buffets of munchies and main dishes, too much to do and too little time to stick to our healthy eating and exercise habits - and the season in which the average person gains between three and five pounds over two months.

If you followed your tips for managing that Thanksgiving smorgasbord, you already have a great start on getting into your favorite party outfit for New Year's Eve.

Click the "Holiday Survival Guide" below if you missed the Thanksgiving tips, they apply to the December festivities as well!

Holiday Survival Guide!

Here's the map to help you navigate the next few weeks of indulging with a minimum impact on your waistline.

• Put your workout on your calendar. In between parties, shopping, family get togethers, and prep for all of the above, write down the hour you need for a good, hard workout so you have no excuses.
• Whenever possible, add an extra 10-15 minutes to your regular workout. You'll bank extra calories that will help your body accommodate the occasional overindulgence.
• Watch your stress level. With all the pressure to create the "perfect" holiday, cortisol (the stress hormone) runs rampant in our bodies this time of year. Cortisol wreaks havoc on our metabolism, sending our systems into overdrive and making us store extra fat belly fat to see us through the stress. Avoid this extra stress by scheduling down time and making room for your favorite unwinding activities.
• Every time you go to shop, park as far away from the door as possible. The extra calories you'll burn on the walk in will add up over time.
• Plan ahead for parties. Bring your own healthy treat, and prepare low-calorie versions of old favorites. Always have a snack beforehand so you aren't tempted by an empty stomach.
• As with Thanksgiving, limit alcohol to two drinks per party, and alternate them with water. Staying well hydrated will help you eat and drink less.
• Sign up for a holiday fitness event, like the Jingle Bell Run. This will motivate you to keep up with your training and give you a designated goal to work toward. Link below.
• Try your snuggest-fitting jeans on once a week. You'll be able to gauge whether they're getting tighter or maintaining their normal fit.

The holidays don't have to be a constant fight in the battle of the bulge. A little planning and willpower will keep you at your fighting weight and have you ahead of the game when the time comes for those New Year's resolutions.

Info on the Cincinnati and Dayton Jingle Bell Run!

Your friend in fitness,