Those Extra 10 Pounds May Be Good for You

Holiday challenge

For many people, getting fit requires a mindset makeover, says personal trainer Nicki Anderson of Napierville, Ill. "You need to stop focusing on weight and start focusing on the healthy changes you're making," she says. Anderson preaches the 80/20 rule to her middle-aged, overweight clients. "Find the sweet spot where 80 percent of the time you move more and eat well," she says. "The other 20 percent is life — birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, vacations — so just enjoy it."

Church concurs that weight loss during the holidays is nigh impossible. "During the holidays, you're just trying to hold your own," he says. His advice: "Don't have crazy expectations but don't let the wheels come completely off the wagon."

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Elizabeth Pope writes about health, work and retirement. She lives in Portland, Maine.