Eat Before Dinner and More Tips to Keep Off the Holiday Pounds

West Bloomfield trainer Mike Knight knows a thing or two about keeping the pounds off. 

A self-described "food addict", Knight got himself into shape after being dangerously overweight. He said he usually starts a 10 pounds in 10 weeks diet challenge with his clients the day before Thanksgiving, as a charity fundraiser. 

"It takes 10 weeks to lose 10 pounds, and that's the average weight gain between Thanksgiving and New Year's," Knight said. 

But nobody has to be average. 

Here are his best tips for the holiday season:

Take a "sponsor" to holiday events. Bring someone along who will hold you accountable for your food choices. 

Be aware. That handful of nuts you grab at a party or a an alcoholic drink will add hundreds of calories to your daily intake. One way to be more mindful, Knight said, is to write down what you eat and drink. 

Eat before you go. Don't skip meals in anticipation of a big dinner or party. You're more likely to overeat if you're starving.

Keep exercising. "If you've got time for a party, you've got time for a work out," Knight said. 

Learn more about Knight's business, Art of Strength, at aoskettlebells.com.