Summer is just around the corner. The change in season means that — along with thinking about vacation plans, picnics, family outings and other fun — you’re probably dreading pulling that swimsuit out of storage. It’s normal: The cold of winter can keep you from staying in the shape you desire and the holiday eating can add a few extra pounds. Don’t sweat it; your beach body is in there somewhere. Check out these 7 tips to find it fast.
#1 Set a Schedule
The best intentions will never get results without a concrete plan of action. Look over your current daily activities: Where could you add in some exercise? Are you a morning person? Maybe setting a schedule to put in an hour at the gym before work would work. Perhaps scheduling a sweat session after you get off for the day would be better. Whatever you decide, write it down, hang it up and stick to it. You’ll be glad you did when you start to see results.
#2 Mix It Up
Doing the same thing over and over allows your body to adapt. Instead of running every day, or spending 30 minutes each day on the elliptical, mix it up. Add some strength training 2-3 days a week, incorporate a great class like Zumba or Insanity (#4) to allow for faster, more apparent results.
#3 Try a Cleanse
Sometimes taking part in a cleanse – 1-3 days, nothing dramatic – can help to jumpstart weight loss and toning efforts before hitting the gym. Look for cleanses online that allow you to eat, but work to rid your body of unnecessary toxins. You’ll feel great and be invigorated to start your new regimen.
#4 Find a Buddy
Working out alone can get tiresome. It’s more effective to start a new program with a friend. Not only will you have someone to share in the experience, you’ll have more motivation. It’s easy to cancel a workout or to decide to have a cheat meal on your own, but, if someone else is depending on you and holding you accountable, you’re more likely to stick it through.
#5 Try Something Medical
Sometimes solo efforts to get in shape fall flat; sometimes something more is required for best results. Techniques like Smartlipo are minimally invasive, using lasers to target problem areas while removing excess fat through thermal energy. Techniques like this allow for skin tightening without the harsh effects of traditional plastic surgery, making your beach body a reality quickly, without effort.
#6 Find Your Happy Place
Not all workouts are created equally just like no two people are created equally. Because of this, what appeals to one person might not be right for you.
Don’t worry about trends and crazes. Not into running? Signing up for all the 5ks in the world probably won’t motivate you to run. Not into group classes? Zumba probably won’t make you get out of bed in the morning.
Find what you like – playing tennis outside, running, swimming a few laps, going on bike rides or any other activity – and incorporate it into your routine. Look for something you enjoy that raises your heart rate and motivates you to keep going.
#7 Set a Goal
Yes, you want to look good for summer, but that goal isn’t quantifiable. Do you want to drop a certain number of pounds? Looking to fit into an old swim suit? Want to be able to do 5 pull ups? Set a goal, no matter how crazy it sounds, and post it everywhere. Use it as motivation on days where it’s hard to stick to the routine and push through, no matter what.
Your ideal beach body is just around the corner. Use the 7 tips above to start working for it today.
See you at the beach!
Cover photo: www.weheartit.com
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