'Tis the season of "naughty" eating. Even if you want to be "nice", studies show that the average American gains 5-7 pounds over the holidays. Ouch. Is the solution spending the next 3 months in denial and wearing pants with an expanding waistband? Sounds lovely but will only make your New Year's resolution that much harder.

  So how about avoiding the extra poundage all together?  It will take some sweat, effort and major willpower but you can get through all the parties and dinners without packing on the pounds. I promise. I did it last year and am going to stick with the program this year.  This means hitting the gym and keeping a clean diet and maybe a "tiny taste" of something on the naughty list here or there. Deprivation can lead to overeating and a possible cookie binge at 3am. Not good!

   To give you some motivation and fresh ideas on getting or staying in shape BEFORE that New Year's Resolution, we're starting a new series on WSAZ 5:30 Edition called "On The Move". For the next several weeks, I'll be checking out unique workouts across the region.

   This week we hit Brandon's Bootcamp at the YMCA in Charleston. An AWESOME workout that will show results if you put in the effort. Case in point. Hugh Caperton. He's been working out and eating well and lost 160 pounds. Outstanding!

  We're also going to check out Crossfit classes, belly dancing and working out without going to the gym.

  Happy holidays!

Jessica