Holiday Fatigue is real, with many of us falling in a physical, emotional and mental slump as the pointy end of the year grows closer.

For many, the holidays can feel like a physical and mental marathon and festivity quickly gives way to holiday fatigue.

In fact, leading connected fitness brand, Peloton recently conducted a global study to understand the role motivation plays in overcoming challenges during the holiday season. From multiple shopping trips to hosting the whole family for Christmas events, survey respondents revealed that the holidays are a true mental and physical workout.

One in two Aussies (55 percent) even said that the holiday season is one of the most taxing ‘workouts’ of the year. Two in three (65 percent) said they are likely to feel exhausted by the end of a holiday season. Almost half of those surveyed (45 percent) admitted to needing another ‘holiday’ after Christmas. Despite this, almost three in four (72 percent) of Australians said they felt they could accomplish anything, with the right motivation. 

Peloton Collabs With Renewed Mental Health Expert Dr. Pooja Lakshmin To Combat Holiday Fatigue

Based on the survey’s findings, Peloton collaborated with psychiatrist, author of Real Self-Care, and founder of Gemma WomenDr. Pooja Lakshmin MD, to support people in kicking holiday fatigue to the kerb. They set out to identify the five global Motivation Languages that speak to the different ways that people globally are motivated in fitness and in life. This is a take on the concept of The Five Love Languages. It’s being employed to help people motivate friends and family to get through the busy holiday season, while also taking care of themselves.

Using The Motivation Languages To Beat Holiday Fatigue

Dr. Pooja explains: “Everyone comes to health and well-being with different motivations. Whether it’s release and relaxation, connection and community, or working toward performance goals. The motivation languages encourage us to think more deeply about how we care for others as well as ourselves during the holiday season and bring the ownership of self-care back into our own hands.

“We know that motivation is key to fitness routines, as all as daily decision making. I am excited to give folks an invitation to interrogate how they are most effectively motivated. Particularly in this season of more more more– when it’s most difficult to take time for yourself.” 

The five Motivation Languages are framed in five foundational categories, speaking to the different ways people are motivated in fitness and in life. These are:

  • Having Fun.
    You’re motivated by having fun and enjoying yourself, letting loose, relaxing, and having a good time.
  • Achieving Goals.
    You’re motivated to perform your best, meet your goals, reach a new milestone, and feel the best you ever have.
  • Building Community
    You’re motivated by connecting with others, inviting friends and families to join, and encourage you, working out is a collaborative experience.
  • Positive Affirmations.
    You’re motivated by kindness, encouragement and positivity that you give to yourself and share with others.
  • Tough Love.
    You’re motivated by structure, strong words, and a no-BS attitude.

Give A Holiday Gift Of Motivation

Peloton is also inviting people to give the #GiftofMotivation to loved ones through digital Pinterest Holiday cards. Each card features a mantra from a popular Peloton Instructor and speaks to one of the five Motivation Languages. Your loved one will be inspired and motivated, and hopefully experience less holiday fatigue.

Peloton Instructor, Matty Maggiacomo says: “As we approach the busy holiday season, it’s important to emphasise the impact the right words can have in helping people achieve their goals or even just make it through their day. Being able to “gift” motivation, as it relates to their unique Motivation Language, is an exciting, fun way to support others and encourage self-care and self-love during the holiday season.”

As for you, don’t forget to gift yourself with plenty of self care. Always remember, self care is never selfish.

Survey Methodology

The research was conducted by Censuswide with 10,083 nationally representative respondents from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and Germany between November 21, 2022 and November 28, 202222. Censuswide abide by and employ members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles and are members of The British Polling Council.

Shonagh Walker is one of Australia's most prolific and respected lifestyle writers, covering everything from health and beauty to travel and entertainment. In her 30+ year career she has interviewed some of the world's most famous faces, covered stories from the lighthearted to the very serious, all with the aim of somehow helping her readers feel better about themselves, or arming them with information to enjoy life to the fullest. Shonagh is the recipient of several prestigious awards for her work. On the rare day she is not at her computer, she can be found walking her dogs or trying to improve her gardening skills.