By this time of the year, many of us are thinking, "Shoot! It is officially summer, and I am nowhere close to being in shape for swimsuits and the beach and Fourth of July parties".
Many people burn out when trying to get into shape, so I want to offer some advice that has really worked for me. Remember, healthy is a lifestyle, and there are no shortcuts to get there.
1. Write Out Your Goals
Throwing it back to elementary school - make SMART goals.
S - Specific. M - Measurable. A - Attainable. R - Realistic. T - Time-Based.
Having goals that meet these standards can dramatically change your success rate. Instead of saying, "I want to be thinner", say, "By August 31, I want to weigh 'X number of pounds'". This allows you to move into step two.
2. Make A Plan
Make a plan, a daily routine that is simple and easy to follow.
You do not cross a wide river by jumping from start to finish. It takes one step at a time over a bridge to reach the other side, which means it will take many weeks to reach your goal, so be prepared and...
3. Know Your Weakness
Ice cream? Avoid the freezer section and don't buy it.
Too much screen time? Delete the apps from your phone, set a reminder to exercise, unplug your television.
Real health means real sacrifices.
4. Track Your Progress
I know it's scary, but you are going to need to weigh yourself. At first it may be disheartening, but it is also a great motivator to stick to your plan. This also allows you to reward yourself as you reach different milestones. So go on and track those calories!
5. Eat Healthy
Exercise without a proper diet will cause more harm than progress.
You don't have to break the bank and eat only gluten free, dairy free and organic (though they are good options) - healthy is about more than what is trending.
Just skip fast food and eating out, watch portion sizes, burn the junk food and love your veggies. This also includes hydration. I can almost guarantee that you are not drinking enough water, and hydration really is key.
6. Knowledge Up!
This one is really important. Many times the "summer body" will be advertised with quick fixes and three minute workouts - they are NOT REAL! No shortcuts to a healthy lifestyle.
Understand which foods, workouts and habits produce a healthy, fit body. Check out your local library for books and subscribe to online fitness sites. My personal favorite is Livestrong.com, which offers incredibly healthy emails and a free, two month workout plan and nutrition tracker.
7. Find a Buddy
A motivator. An accountability partner. Co-creator of an amazing workout playlist. Someone to feel the post-leg day burn with.
You'll inspire each other, and you can kick butt together.
8. Don't Quit
A healthy body and lifestyle is real - make change happen, and I will see you looking more fly than a bird this time next year.
