Be sure to check out the video version of this poem here:
‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house
Everyone was exercising even the mouse
The dumbbells were stacked all in a row
Arranged in order from heavy to low
The children were skipping, with bright smiling faces
Creating natural endorphins with all of their paces
Mamma was on the treadmill, favorite song playing loud
Papa was on the spin bike, looking at his family so proud
When out on the lawn they heard such a wheeze
The family peeked out and there on his knees
Was an out of breath Santa who looked quite a mess
An overhanging belly and a face filled with stress
Many seasons of cookies had taken their toll
Not to mention the treats from the North Pole
Too much worry and not enough rest
Had left Santa a wreck, not at his best
No shortbread!, No oatmeal!, No brownies or cake!
How much more can my arteries take?
He pled without breath and asked for a chair
They obliged with a smile, hearts filled with care
“But Santa”, said the youngest, “you can say no”
“Or ask for fruit and veggies or eat paleo”
“Walk when you can and get lots of sleep”
“Try a hike up a hill, it’s fun when it’s steep”
“Don’t work so hard and laugh with your wife”
“That dear Santa is how to have a healthier life”
Santa was amazed at the child’s wise thoughts
He handed her toys, the ones that he brought
But what to his wondering eyes should he see
Toys meant for playing, toys for activity
a Football, a bike, a pink yoga mat
A kite, some sneakers, a wooden baseball bat
The family understood just how to be happy
Be active, play outside and just the occasional taffy
Moderation they knew was certainly key
Santa felt changed, he was finally free
He composed himself, ate a carrot or two
Enjoyed his short break, he had a job to do
He must tell the world, the importance of health
It’s not just about toys, excess or wealth
Up into the sky he went on his sleigh
To spread the message of health by the end of the day
At each house he left an extra item to share
A jump rope, a TRX, an exercise ball chair
The cookies he left untouched on the plate
It was time for Dear Santa to change his fate
He left a courteous note explaining his ways
That we need to do better during the holidays
Finishing his job he felt so much joy
Having helped change the fate of each girl and boy
He went home that night to tell the north pole
The new focus on health for the world as a whole
Happy Holidays!
From Fitness Town!
