I got asked this question the other day, and at first I thought it was funny, until I realized how creative it can be–

“Does shopping count as exercise? I hate the thought of going to the gym, so if I can find any way around that to keep active, then I will!”

So I thought I’d answer it here:

Now we’re into December and getting close to Christmas…
There’s something that we do around this time of year that that counts as good healthy habit.
It can help keep you active and burn calories! And guess what it is??

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………. It’s SHOPPING

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Christmas shopping – THE busiest shopping time of the year.

Now Christmas shopping can do one of two things – cause you frustration and stress, OR bring you delight and enjoyment.

But let me ask you this – have you ever considered that shopping might be a legitimate addition to your weekly exercise routine?

I’m serious – hours of walking around malls and stores can quickly add up to huge amount of steps, and you can burn up to 200 calories doing so!

To put that into context, if you see someone out jogging, they’ll have to run at the same pace for up to 30 minutes to burn the same amount of calories.

And even though they’re keeping active for a shorter amount of time, for those of you who don’t enjoy jogging or part of class — shopping, especially at this time of year is a great alternative to keeping active.

Of course I’m not saying shopping alone should replace your regular exercise regime, but it’s good to know that an everyday activity like this counts towards your daily exercise goals.

Not to mention, the next time someone says you shop too much, you can use this as the perfect excuse!

Now I know sometimes it’s difficult, there’s always so many people around, and it seems like it would be a much better idea to order everything online.

But try to resist the urge to buy it all online.

You don’t get the opportunity to do something new, such as exercise, by ordering it all online – not to mention keeping active during winter is always a great way to stick to your health goals.

If you’re wondering about other daily activities that can count as exercise that I mentioned, here are some ideas for you:

✓ Cleaning the house
✓ Washing your car (although maybe not a great idea in winter!)
✓ Walking the dog
✓ Playing with the kids or grandkids

There are plenty of options, but doing your Christmas shopping is a win-win! You get all the Christmas presents bought, and you are exercising and burning calories.
So my take away for you today is this: while traditional exercises like running and finding a fitness class you enjoy are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle – everyday activities can be an additional way to get you moving.

Happy Holidays!

December is here. Celebrations are planned, decorations are far and wide, and the sound of music is in the air! We at MINT would like to wish all of our members a wonderful holiday season filled with happiness, lots of love, and of course – great health! The superstar MINT instructors and I are excited to continue to help you achieve and exceed your fitness goals into 2018.

Although I have big shoes to fill, following our amazing Liz Harvey, I am excited for the great opportunity to lead you as Intensity and Strength Director. Liz has set the bar high as a wonderful and a dynamic leader who inspires our members day in and out.  Join me in wishing her the best as she takes on her new role as General Manager of the new Mint Studio. We love you, Liz !!!!!

As the holiday season continues and the New Year will be here soon enough, our Intensity classes will certainly continue to help you burn off those holiday calories. I encourage you to charge into 2018 with a purpose!

Holiday Tips:
To help you maintain your success through the holidays I’ve provided you with some tips to help you as you enjoy time with family and friends.

1. Drink Water. ‘Tis the season to enjoy yourself! Even though you will be eating drinking a little differently during this time, remember to incorporate your healthy eating and water intake practices as much as possible.
2. Moderation. At the end of the day, it’s all about balance. We encourage you to indulge every now and then, but in moderation. If you find yourself eating more sweets or tastier meals, remember to try and limit the number of times you do this. As a rule of thumb, I typically recommend consuming treats during the mid-day. This way you have more time to burn the additional calories off before bedtime.
3. Recharge. As wonderful as this time of year can be, don’t forget to listen to your body and take time to recharge. That can look different to everyone. It might mean making time to cook a healthy recipe you’ve been wanting to try or going to bed a little earlier. The choice is yours!

If you have any questions or feedback regarding the Intensity or Strength classes or tips to stay on track during the holiday season, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I want to ensure your experience is second to none.

Sign up and show up, so our fitness levels can continue to GO UP! Intensity Classes:
– TRX Bootcamp
– TRX Senior
– MINTcore
– Power Playground
– Power Playground Burn-Advanced
– Mint Outdoor Bootcamp
– Plyo Fit
– MintFuze

Roger Mack
MINT Intensity/Strength Director
Master Trainer
RogerMintDC@gmail.com

Seasons Greetings from MINT Studios 14th Street at Manhattan Laundry,

MINT Studios is very pleased to announce our new corporate rate of $129/member (savings of $69/mo off studio pricing). Enjoy all three locations: Downtown, Dupont and 14th Street at Manhattan Laundry.

Please note your company must participate; see the list here

MINT Studios Corporate Membership includes the following:

• Access to all MINT locations (Downtown, Dupont, and Manhattan Laundry)
• Unlimited Classes (Downtown, Dupont, and Manhattan Laundry)

Signature MINT – Amenities including free coffee, chilled towels, and more!
MINT Membership Add-Ons:

• $30 Child Care (DuPont Only)
• $75 Family Add-On (Restrictions Apply)

I invite you to secure your Corporate Membership today! Upgrade by 12/31 and your first month is on us! Please see link below and fill out the questionnaire in detail.

Reserve NEW MINT Studios Corporate Rate NOW!

View Current MINT Corporate Members

Don’t see your company below? Please contact me directly at lizh@mintdc.com so that we can create a corporate account for you.

**Please note: If you are not interested in upgrading, then your membership will remain the same.** Questions and comments are welcomed and encouraged.

Sunday, December 10th White Cloud Gallery will be showcasing some special prints at MINT DuPont for a special discount of 30% off that day only from 10am – 12pm. Customers will also receive 50% off future White Cloud seminars

On Sunday, December 17th climb and sprint through scenes of your favorite holiday movies, from the Grinch to White Christmas. Music will feature song titles that correspond to big events in each movie with one or two holiday songs mixed in!

Reserve your spot!

Thursday December 14th, Lizzie’s 7:30pm MINT Ride

“With The Resistance: A Star Wars Ride”

Calling all Star Wars Fans: Please join Lizzie for a ride in a galaxy far, far away. In celebration of the premier of The Last Jedi, we will fly through hills, thrills, and speed drills. Expect dance remixes and samples from the original trilogy (See Album: Star Wars Headspace) and the usual dose of intensity. The resistance will not be intimidated. May the force be with you!