In this exclusive interview, we had the chance to sit down with Aamir Ishtiaque, the founder of Aamir Fit and a renowned online personal trainer, to talk about how to balance the indulgence of the holiday season with your fitness goals. Aamir, known for his transformative 90-day coaching programs, shares his top-secret formula for staying fit during the festive season.
Aamir, how do you help your clients stay in shape during the season of excess?
Aamir Ishtiaque of Aamir Fit stresses the importance of finding a balance during the holidays. “Christmas is a time for celebration, but it doesn’t mean forgetting about our health and fitness goals-it’s about smart indulgence,” he explains. As an experienced online personal trainer, Aamir’s personalised approach helps clients maintain progress even during festive periods.
So, you’re saying we can have our cake and eat it too?
“Exactly, moderation is key,” Aamir says. “Have that slice of cake, enjoy that glass of wine. Just don’t go overboard. My clients learn to savour the moment without sabotaging their progress.” This balanced approach aligns with Aamir Fit’s philosophy of creating sustainable, enjoyable fitness routines.
What simple activities can we do to stay active during the holidays?
Aamir suggests incorporating simple activities into your holiday routine. “I’m all about sneaking in activity. A post-dinner walk, a family game of touch football – it all adds up.” he advises. These activities complement the customised workout plans Aamir creates for his clients, which are accessible through his training app, a key tool in hisonline personal training services.
How do you keep clients from going off the rails with holiday treats?
Aamir stresses the importance of mindful eating, a principle central to his nutrition plans. “Savour your food, I teach my guys to really tune into their hunger cues. It’s not just about what you eat, but how you eat it.“ he recommends.
This approach helps clients avoid overeating while still enjoying holiday meals.This mindful approach is a core component of the nutrition plans provided in his online personal training programs.
Why is staying hydrated crucial during the holidays, in your opinion?
“Don’t forget to stay hydrated” , Aamir reminds us. “Staying hydrated means you’re less likely to mistake thirst for hunger and overeat”.
Staying hydrated is often overlooked during the holidays but is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet. This tip is part of Aamir’s guidance provided in his daily check-ins with clients.
How do you handle the inevitable guilt that comes with holiday indulgence, Aamir?
Aamir Fit also addresses the issue of guilt. “Guilt has no place in a healthy lifestyle. It’s important to remember that one day of indulgence won’t undo all your hard work.” Feeling guilty about indulging during the holidays can be counterproductive. Aamir reminds us that it’s okay to enjoy special occasions and that one day of indulgence won’t derail our long-term fitness goals.
Can you share a personal experience where you balanced holiday indulgence with fitness goals?
Aamir: “I remember one Christmas when I was particularly strict with my diet and fitness routine due to my prep for a bodybuilding show. I ended up feeling so deprived that I missed out on a lot of the festive fun. The next year, I decided to take a different approach. I allowed myself to enjoy small portions of my favourite treats, like my grandmother’s traditional Christmas desserts, while still maintaining a balanced diet. It reminded me that health and fitness are about long-term habits, not short-term restrictions.”
What sets Aamir Fit apart in the crowded online fitness space?
“It’s all about personalisation. Every workout, every meal plan, every check-in is tailored to the individual. During the holidays, we adjust strategies to fit each client’s unique situation. It’s not one-size-fits-all; it’s one-size-fits-you..”
Through his online personal training and online fitness coaching, Aamir ensures that each client receives a tailored approach that complements their lifestyle and helps them achieve maximum results.
Aamir Fit’s Muscle-Building Christmas Menu
Looking to keep those gains while still indulging in holiday cheer? Aamir Fit provides some delicious and nutritious recipe ideas. Here are a few highlights:
Starters
- Celeriac, Hazelnut & Truffle Soup: A healthy vegan soup made from celeriac, hazelnuts, and truffle oil, is a protein-rich appetiser that’ll warm you up without weighing you down.
Alternative Main Courses
- Herb-Roasted Turkey: Opt for a leaner and healthier roast turkey using herbs for flavour instead of high-sugar glazes. Aamir’s herb-roasted turkey breast is a protein powerhouse without the excess fat.
- Whole Roasted Eye Fillet with Mustard, Parsley and Garlic Butter: This leaner cut of beef is a healthier alternative and can be prepared with a flavorful mustard, parsley, and garlic butter.
Side Dishes
Parsnip & Celeriac Bake
Aamir’s twist on the classic gratin uses nutrient-dense root veggies and a protein-rich Greek yoghurt topping.
Chilli-Charred Brussels Sprouts
Add some spice to your Brussels sprouts with garlic, lemon, and chilli. This vegan side dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.
Roast Potatoes with Paprika
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned with metabolism-boosting paprika.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Cauliflower
Aamir’s 50/50 mix of white potatoes and cauliflower to keep the classic texture and taste while sneaking in extra veggies.
Desserts
- Gluten-Free Chocolate Ganache Tart : This gluten-free ganache tart is topped with antioxidant-rich pomegranate seeds for a guilt-free finish to your feast.
- Savory Pear Surprise: Aamir’s pear and blue cheese tart is a protein-rich alternative to sugar-laden desserts, perfect for using up holiday leftovers.
Aamir’s Pro Tips for a Shredded Christmas
- Whole Foods Focus: “Load up on whole grains, legumes, and a rainbow of veggies,” Aamir advises. “Your body is a temple, even during the holidays.”
- Ditch the Refined Crap: “Swap white flour for almond flour, sugar for stevia, and always opt for lean proteins,” says Aamir. Your abs will thank you.
- Cook Smart, Eat Smart: “Air fryers and slow cookers are your secret weapons for healthier versions of classic dishes,” Aamir reveals.
Incorporating Exercise During Holiday Preparations
Aamir suggests simple exercises to do while preparing holiday meals:
- While the turkey is roasting: Take a 10-minute walk around the house and do 3 sets of 20 squats and lunges.
- While vegetables are steaming: Do 3 sets of 10 push-ups and tricep dips using a chair.
The Last Rep
Aamir: “Remember, guys, the holidays are a marathon, not a sprint. Use the holiday season as an opportunity to practise balance.” As Aamir often says, “As long as you’re willing to put in the work, the results are inevitable”.
Ready to transform your body and dominate your fitness goals? Visit Aamir Fitness and book your free 30-minute coaching call today with this experienced online personal trainer.
Follow him on Instagram, where he shares insightful tips, client success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his online fitness coaching sessions. You can also connect with him on Facebook and Twitter, where he regularly updates his community with the latest fitness trends, nutrition advice, and mental well-being strategies.