Give the Gift of Exercise: Americans Gain 1 Pound on Average Over the Holidays

Dec. 20, 2011— -- When it comes to the holidays, many American traditions involve family, friends, and plenty of tasty foods, so it's no surprise that there is general weight gain during this season.

But with approximately 40 million Americans belonging to health clubs, it may come as a surprise that Americans tend to gain around 1 lb of body weight during the holidays on average, according to the New England Journal of Medicine. That may not seem like such a dramatic number, however on average most Americans do not lose this 1 lb of holiday weight. Unfortunately, this 1 lb may increase over the years can eventually lead to more problematic health issues.

Also, within the study conducted by the New England Journal of Medicine, those heavier participants tended to gain on average 5 lbs or more during the holidays.

There is no wonder that maintaining your exercise regime during the holidays is important.