- By Lindsay Hallam, The Studio (MDR)

Mashed potatoes, stuffing, pumpkin pie...oh my! A great meal celebrating with family and friends is a big part of the Thanksgiving tradition.  But it doesn't mean it has to throw all of your good habits off track, leading to weight gain.  Lindsay Hallam, an instructor at The Studio (MDR) who lost almost 50 pounds and totally transformed her body and lifestyle, shares 8 easy tips to stay healthy around the Thanksgiving holiday.

1. PREPARE

This is my number one tip no matter what time of year it is. The only time I find myself veering off course in my diet, is when I don't have my meals planned. Especially if I'm going to indulge a little on Thanksgiving, I make sure to plan the other meals during the week to serve my fitness goals.

2. DRINK WATER

Drinking water throughout the day helps to keep cravings at bay and prevents overeating.

3. STAY ACTIVE

Although it's tempting, I don't use the holiday as an excuse to skip out on my weekly workout routine. Working out before the holiday sets up good intentions and working out after the holiday keeps me on track. 

4. DON'T SKIP MEALS

I have learned the hard way that skipping meals to "save room" doesn't work and will usually lead to over-consuming later in the day. 

5. BRING A HEALTHY DISH TO A HOLIDAY PARTY

Not only does the host(ess) appreciate the contribution, but I like to have it as a back up dish in case the rest of the options are calorie-packed.

6. WATCH THE ALCOHOL

This is a huge struggle in social situations like holiday gatherings, but it's important to limit the alcohol. Calories in these drinks add up quick and can lead to making unhealthy food choices. I stick with a two drink max rule!

7. LOSE THE GUILT

There is absolutely nothing wrong with indulging a little, whether it's Thanksgiving or just a random Tuesday. Even if I throw every rule out the window one day, I am back to my normal routine the next day. One misstep isn't going to ruin your progress. 

8. BE THANKFUL!

Thanksgiving serves as a great reminder that there is always so much to be thankful for. After coming from a place in my life where I was 50 pounds overweight and completely depressed, I am so thankful I have a healthy body that allows me to work hard, rest well, enjoy life and lead by example for others to do the same!

After years of feeling insecure and uncomfortable in her own skin, failing fad diets and unused gym memberships, Lindsay (then 172 lbs on a 5'6" frame) was at an all-time low. That is when she stumbled upon The Studio (MDR) and head trainer Ky Evans. With Ky's help, Lindsay made the commitment to make a real change; to lose weight the healthy way via proper nutrition and regular exercise at the Studio. She made Pilates a way of life, implementing the principles she learned at The Studio (MDR) into her every day existence, focusing intently on proper posture and breathing to activate core muscles, and walking rather than driving when possible. Eight months later, Lindsay had lost 48 pounds, transforming her body, lifestyle, mindset, and confidence. She then decided to pursue training to become an instructor, and since, has not only become a knowledgeable trainer, but an inspiration to her clients.

Since January 2011, over 3,500 clients, including celebrities, top-tier athletes, young professionals and new moms, have become devoted to The Studio's revolutionary program. They swear by the workout's body-makeover abilities, evidenced by tangible results like Lindsay's. Check out The Studio MDR online at www.thestudiomdr.com, which features additional unbelievable testimonials from The Studio’s clients.