How to Stay Consistent With Martial Arts Training During the Holidays

The holiday season is one of the hardest times to stay active. Between family gatherings, travel, last-minute shopping, and endless food, even dedicated martial artists can feel their routine slipping. If you’ve been struggling with martial arts consistency—whether you train BJJ, Judo, Boxing, or general fitness—you’re not alone.

The good news? You can stay consistent during the holidays without stressing yourself out. A few small adjustments to your schedule, mindset, and habits will keep your momentum going and help you return in January feeling strong—not starting from zero.

Below are practical, real-world strategies to help you stay on track, even during the busiest time of year.

1. Set Realistic Training Goals for the Season

Your training doesn’t need to be perfect during the holidays—it just needs to be consistent. Instead of aiming for big improvements, shift into “maintenance mode.”

Ask yourself:

• What’s the minimum number of classes I can realistically commit to?

• What schedule makes sense with my travel or family plans?

For many people, that means switching from four classes a week to two. And guess what? Those two classes will still keep your technique sharp, help maintain martial arts consistency, and make January feel way easier.

2. Prioritize Short but Effective Training Sessions

If long classes feel overwhelming this month, focus on short but intentional training.

Try:

• Dropping in for half a class or a shortened open mat

• 30-minute drilling sessions (positionals, guard retention, breakfalls, footwork)

• Quick solo workouts at home

Small sessions still fuel progress—and they protect your routine from falling apart. Even 15 minutes of focused movement keeps your body and mind in “training mode.”

3. Plan Your Training Around Holiday Events

This is one of the most effective BJJ training tips and Judo training tips during the holiday season: treat your classes like appointments. If it’s on the calendar, you’re far more likely to show up.

Here’s how to plan well:

• Look at your gym’s holiday schedule early

• Add classes to your phone calendar

• Block out “training time” just like any work meeting or family commitment

• Choose morning or midday classes if evenings get busy

Balance is key. You can enjoy family events and still train—you just need a plan.

4. Use Home Workouts to Stay Sharp

If you’re traveling, snowed in, or juggling family duties, home workouts can save your rhythm.

Here are simple holiday-friendly ideas:

Movement & Solo Drills

• Hip escapes, technical stand-ups, sprawls

• Shrimping patterns for grapplers

• Footwork drills for Judo and Boxing

• Shadow grappling or shadowboxing

Mobility & Conditioning

• 10–15 minutes of stretching

• Light core circuits

• Resistance band drills

These sessions require minimal space but help you maintain technique, timing, and conditioning. When you come back to class, your body will feel ready—not rusty.

5. Lean on Community and Accountability

Your teammates and instructors can be your biggest source of holiday workout motivation.

Try:

• Making a “training pact” with a teammate

• Attending classes together

• Checking in through group chats

• Inviting a friend, coworker, or family member to try a beginner class

Training feels easier when you’re not doing it alone. Plus, holiday promotions are a great time to introduce someone new to martial arts.

6. Focus on Nutrition and Recovery

No, you don’t need to diet during the holidays. But small, mindful choices help you stay energized for training.

Simple tips:

• Drink plenty of water (especially if you’re enjoying holiday treats)

• Eat a balanced snack before class

• Stretch before bed to release tension

• Prioritize sleep to support recovery

Enjoy the food, the parties, the desserts—just balance indulgence with activity. Your body will thank you.

7. Keep the Right Mindset

During the holidays, consistency doesn’t mean training every day. It means showing up when you can, doing your best, and giving yourself grace.

Remember:

• Progress > perfection

• A short workout is better than none

• Every class you attend keeps the habit strong

• Small wins add up

Focus on staying active, not being perfect. Maintaining even a light martial arts holiday routine now sets you up for success in January.

Stay Consistent, Stay Motivated, Stay Moving

Holiday seasons are busy—but with realistic goals, short workouts, smart planning, and community support, you can stay consistent and keep your training momentum alive.

Even if you only get in one or two classes a week, you’re still showing up, still learning, and still investing in yourself.