For most of us, school is out and we have 3 long summer months ahead of us. These next 3 months are the perfect opportunity to do many things. Including getting fit, which is an easy and useful way to spend the summertime. Here are 10 simple ways to not only improve your fitness, but make Summer 2015 a memorable and healthier one for the books!
1. Wake up and go for a run.
The morning is the best time to exercise and it also serves as a great opportunity to catch some sun rays! Did you know that if you maintain a six mile per hour pace, you will burn almost 600 calories in one hour on average?!
2. Make a lot of smoothies.
Smoothies are not only delicious and easy to make, but they are a great way to get your daily vitamin and mineral intake. Throw in some Greek yogurt and spinach (you won't taste it) with your fruit and berries, and you will have made a protein packed meal replacement shake!
3. Cook the food in your house and avoid the take out and fast food.
Doing this will not only save you money, but processed foods add unwanted calories into your meals. So ditch the take-out salad and use your stocked kitchen to your advantage and make a healthier -- and probably yummier -- homemade salad!
4. Cut out your alcohol intake.
Well, maybe not all the time, but use this summer to your advantage to take a break from the booze. One shot is approximately 100 calories. Just let that sink in.
5. Keep a food log.
This one is super easy! I use the notes in my phone, but smart phone applications such as My Fitness Pal make it even easier to log everything you eat. This not only makes you aware of what you are eating, but it gives you a good idea of the number of calories you consume each day.
6. Get fit with friends.
Setting goals, exercising, and discussing healthy food options can get boring alone, so do it with friends! This makes it more fun and also helps you keep each other motivated and eager to continue this healthy trend.
7. Drink more water.
This one is pretty self explanatory. However, strive to cut out soda, lemonade, iced tea, etc., and replace these sugar-filled beverages with water. It is recommended you consume eight glasses of water each day, which becomes especially important during these hot summer months.
8. Go outside.
Be active: go for a hike, roller blade in the park, or kayak down the river. Whatever you prefer, this is probably the easiest way to burn calories and have fun while doing it.
9. Cut down on desserts -- replace with fruit.
Yes, I know a slice of cake once in awhile won't kill you, but for the most part try replacing a sugary snack with a delicious piece of fruit. Nothing makes me think of summer more than fresh watermelon on a hot day.
10. Make it a lifestyle change -- not a diet.
Getting in shape and losing weight is not about exercising to excess or cutting out every single unhealthy food item. It is about becoming knowledgeable about small changes that can make huge differences in the way you look and feel.
