It’s almost upon us — the holiday season. During this hectic season, people take on more responsibilities and commit to more events and get-togethers than any time of the year. All of this extra work can put a strain on the body if the average person is unprepared. Surviving the holidays requires thinking of them as athletic activities and training for the work ahead.

The added responsibilities of the holidays, including shopping, decorating and hosting, puts added stress on everyone this time of year. Those not used to the on-the-go speed and long days may find they suffer frequent ailments this time of the year, including physical injuries.

Think about how the holidays are akin to an athletic event:

* During shopping a person can unknowingly walk several miles in a store or mall.

* Individuals often tote around heavy packages and/or lift weighty items.

* Long hours are spent on one’s feet.

* Fast decisions have to be made on purchases.

* Holiday decorating may entail climbing up and down a ladder or bringing heavy boxes out of the attic.

* People may keep long hours traveling to social engagements, taxing their bodies.

These are just a few demands on the body. In order to prevent fatigue or more serious injury from holiday activities, consider these pointers.

* Stretch out before you hit the stores. Warm up stiff muscles to prepare for the day ahead.

* Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can tax the body and lead to feelings of sluggishness or even induce headaches.

* Wear comfortable shoes with plenty of cushioning to withstand the impact of walking all day.

* Use a backpack to tote essentials along. Plus, packages can be stuffed into the backpack to free up hands or balance the weight of purchases.

* Don’t carry around more than you can handle. Plan frequent trips to the car to drop off purchases. If lockers are available in the mall, use them.

* Take breaks every hour and sit down to rest feet and de-stress.

* Eat light, healthy foods. Greasy fast food could strain overstressed organs. Heart attacks during the holidays are common. Healthy foods can also help combat the average 6 pounds of weight a person gains during the season of overindulgence.

* Caffeine can stress the body even more, so try to limit intake.

* Know your limits. If your body is telling you enough is enough, call it a day.

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