Tips to staying in top shape on one of the busiest shopping days of the year

CLEVELAND - Are you one of the millions of Americans who plan on braving the Black Friday crowds to save some dough on your holiday list?

Going shopping on Black Friday is more than just the usual trip to the store, which is why there is something else to keep in mind besides where to get the best deals – your health.

Dr. Christine Alexander, the interim chairperson for the Department of Family Medicine at MetroHealth said you really have to consider how healthy you are before you stand in line and fight the crowds.

"Are you on any chronic medications that could make this difficult, can you stand for hours on end?" Dr. Alexander asked.

If you decide that you are healthy enough for it, make sure you stay hydrated. Bring water and some healthy snacks with you to get through the long night.

Dr. Alexander said, "Some fruits, some vegetables, something you can munch on so that you can sustain your blood sugar while you are standing there for long periods of time."

If you need to grab something while doing your shopping, Dr. Alexander said granola is usually a good choice for most everyone.

And what about sleep? 

"I thinking napping is a really good idea," said Dr. Alexander. "Even small cat naps, 10, 15 ,20 minutes can re-energize you."

Also, be sure to catch up on the Z's you miss by adding a few hours of sleep the next few nights.

And if you planned on chugging coffee all night to stay awake, Dr. Alexander said, "Caffeine is really only going to work for about two or three hours."

So save it for the end if you have to drive home, or for getting through the last few hours of shopping.

Also, if you wind up standing in line for a while, Dr. Alexander said to move around to keep your blood flowing.

Don't lock your knees, shift your weight and consider doing knee bends or even jumping jacks.