Beach season is just around the corner, and that means now is the opportune time to begin prepping your body for the season. We all want the perfect body in the sunshine, but it takes a lot of dedication and hard work to get there. If you are determined to put in the work, you’ll surely see results sooner rather than later.
To get you started, here are five ways to get your body ready for beach season.
Are you looking to tone your abs, work your legs, or strengthen your arms? Or perhaps you want an all-over tone. Whatever the case, it is important to target the areas you want to tone and choose exercise routines that zone in on those places. If you are looking to lose weight altogether, getting your heart rate and metabolism up is what you’ll want to conquer.
Cardio is great for this. If you are looking to tone, add weight and strength training. Whatever the case for you, it all begins with targeting your problem areas.
They say that abs begin in the kitchen, and they may be right. Removing all processed food and junk from your diet will do wonders for your waist. Eating as clean as you can is important. Clean eating means fresh produce, lean meats, and heart-healthy grains. A few delicious foods to start incorporating into your diet include eggs, salmon filet, Greek yogurt, and watermelon. Not only will these foods fuel your workouts, but will not leave you feeling sluggish. A protein and fiber-filled diet will keep you feeling full and energized.
As touched upon above, exercise is important when it comes to achieving a beach body. A blend of cardio and weights is best since cardio will build your stamina and keep your heart rate up (burning those calories!) A weight routine targets the areas you are working on and will define muscles. The important thing to remember is to change up your routine. Be sure to change incline and speed to push your body further each week. Changing it up will keep your muscles guessing, and that is how you break a sweat.
While the gym or home are great places to workout, take advantage of the nice spring weather and get outside! Taking a jog around the neighborhood or even something as simple as jumping rope are both great ways to change up what you are doing and enjoy the fresh air. It’s a great change of pace, too! It’s a good way to avoid getting bored and wanting to quit.
Nix the bottled juices and soda and start drinking more water. It is recommended that you get at least eight glasses a day. Drinking water will not only flush out toxins but will keep you feeling full. Add a slice of lemon or lime to change things up and add a hint of flavor.
The most important thing to remember is that transforming your body is a process and should not be rushed. Do not get discouraged if you do not see results right away. The perfect body takes time, and it will surely come if you keep up with these new habits and routines.
Above all else, do not be too hard on yourself. Each and every body is different, and that is what makes us beautiful. Feeling strong, confident, and healthy is the most important. Strive for these things, and you’ll flourish.