10 Tips to Survive Christmas (Without Blowing Out) for Men Over 40
Summer in Australia means BBQs, beers, prawns, pavlova, and food tables that refill themselves. If you’re a man over 40 trying to stay strong without going full marshmallow mode, here are 10 quick, realistic ways to get through Christmas feeling good — not wrecked.
1. Protein First, Party Second
A quick protein hit before you walk in:
- jerky
- rotisserie chicken
- cheese + crackers
- Protein shake
It keeps appetite steady so you don’t inhale sausage rolls like they’re oxygen.
2. Break Up the Beers
Try the 1:1 rule:
Beer → water → beer.
You’ll enjoy the night without waking up like a dehydrated raisin.
3. Don’t Arrive Hungry
Have a high protein brekkie the morning of the event.
Don't turn up starving = grazing table destruction.
Eat something small first so you can actually choose, not attack.
4. Lead With the Meat
On the BBQ plate, go:
- steak
- chicken
- prawns
Then add sides. Not the other way around.
5. If You’re Full, Stop
You don’t need to “finish the table.”
There’s no Christmas trophy for third servings of ham.
6. Try And Stick To Your Training Routine
(Even Hungover)
Doesn’t need to be heroic:
- Get it done early (so motivation isn't lost)
- 20-minute walk
- beach swim
- light weights
Just keep the engine ticking.
7. Dessert Is Allowed — Just Not Three Rounds
Enjoy pavlova. Enjoy trifle.
Just don’t enter the Olympic dessert relay.
8. Hydrate Early
Hot day + booze + salt = dehydration disaster.
Start water before drinks, not after.
9. Don’t Write Off December
- If you fall off the wagon, don't give up
- You don’t need to “start in January.”
- Start again tomorrow
- One good decision a day still counts.
10. Dress Like You Still Train
A tee or tank that fits right instantly upgrades your confidence — and how you show up at events.
Look sharp, feel sharp, choose smarter.
Stay Strong This Summer
Christmas doesn’t have to derail progress.
A little protein, water between rounds, and smarter choices go a long way for men over 40 — especially when the calendar fills up.
Enjoy the BBQs, the beers, the sun, and the food — just don’t let the silly season flatten you.
Stay Strong