9 Tips to a Summer-Ready Physique
Sharon Monticello
Sharon Monticello is native to one of California's most picturesque areas— Petaluma, nestled in the heart of wine country, has been home to Sharon's...
Sharon Monticello is native to one of California's most picturesque areas— Petaluma, nestled in the heart of wine country, has been home to Sharon's...
Summer season is usually the time when most people trade in their big bag of chips for carrots and celery sticks, and frankly, who can blame them? Summertime is, indeed, a time for fun and the sun– for vacations, barbecues, parties, and drinking. And while there’s no problem in relishing these activities at this time of the year, it will be hard to make sure that your health WON’T suffer along the way, let alone maintain a fit body during these care-free months.
Let’s all take care of ourselves this summer to keep our bodies fit, healthy, and happy throughout the sunny season. To help you get to your fittest self, here are nine simple tips to a summer-ready physique:
Start the day right
While it’s hard to jump out of bed ready to grab life by its horns at the crack of dawn, know that you will always have the power to shape your entire day by being prepared– even if you’re not a morning person! Grab some coffee, choose a favorite spot in your home, and take time to focus on your tasks and goals for the day. Plan your meal, schedule your activities, and positively posture your mind for the day ahead. Doing so will help you become more productive, happier, and healthier. Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated– dedicate a minimum of five minutes to yourself, and you should be good to go.
Pack in nutrients early in the day
Breakfast and lunch are mealtimes in our day we typically have the most control over, so take advantage of it and pack in nutrients early in the day. Go for high lean protein, healthy fats, fruits, and veggies, so you’ll be sure to get all the micro and macronutrients you need to fuel your body earlier in the day and keep yourself feeling full and satisfied all day long.
Splurge in moderation
Yeah, we get it. It can be tough to stick to a healthy eating plan during the summer, especially when we get swept away to weddings, parties, and dinners where healthy choices are almost non-existent. Nevertheless, there’s always room for all kinds of food in a healthy diet– some just need to be enjoyed in moderation! Splurge in your faves only when it’s actually worth it, without regret and especially without getting off track!
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Always remember the importance of drinking enough water, especially during the summer months. Keeping the body hydrated helps the heart more easily pump blood through the blood vessels to the muscles. And, it helps the muscles work efficiently, too! One way to test if you are drinking enough water is to pay attention to your urine. If it is light in color, then you are drinking enough. Meanwhile, if it is darker, then you aren’t. Always have enough water available during the summer months no matter what you are doing.
Just move
Stop slugging off! Go for a jog, walk your dog, or enjoy a light yoga session– no matter which you choose, the important thing is that you’re moving! Establishing consistency is key in building your fitness and keeping your body healthy and fresh!
Stretch it
Stretching may not be the first thing that goes to mind when we’re talking about a summer-ready body, but suffering an injury can quickly derail your fitness journey! Make sure that taking a minimum of five minutes stretching out your body after every workout, holding each stretch for 30 seconds for best results. We’re telling you, you’ll be amazed at how great your body feels, and you may even see better results from your fitness program.
Choose a specific fitness plan and stick to it
If you’ve been working out for years, repeating the same workout wondering why you don’t see results, then it might be about time to choose a specific fitness plan to gear yourself towards your goals and make a world of difference! Remember, it’s about working smarter, not harder, so if you don’t know where to start, research various workout schedules for losing weight, gaining muscle, or just general fitness for health. Go for that first step to make some progress!
Get enough rest
We all know that getting a good night’s sleep is key, but it’s not the only thing your body needs to be at its best. If you’re working out regularly, you also want to incorporate recovery days into your workout schedule. A recovery day isn’t necessarily taking a long break from your routine, though, but a lighter day focused on giving your body some extra love and care. Choose light activities like walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming– these movements are easier on the joints and cardiovascular system.
Learn to be comfortable in your own skin
Chin up! Regardless of what you look like on the outside, loving your body is the most important step in prepping yourself to rock that “summer body” with confidence! Learn to respect your body and be grateful for what it allows you to accomplish and do every day. A positive perspective will not only make you feel more confident in your skin through any life stage, but you’ll also be more apt to work out, eat and live well out of love for your body.
