We see magazine articles and TV programs every day discussing the perfect beach body and how to achieve one. They make it sound so easy while in reality, we all know it's far from a walk in the park. There are those trying to lose weight and others trying to put a few pounds on. Here are some tips to help you out in the battle:

1. Know that no matter what you look like, it's the inside that counts.

The first step is to be happy with who you are as a person before trying to set your goals about looks.

2. Don't spend your time trying to cut out all carbs, sugars and the comfort foods you love.

There's nothing wrong with enjoying your favorite things. Simply limit how much you eat and how often you eat it. Cut back on portion sizes. No need to throw away all the sweets and bread, so long as you can have some self-control. If it takes you a little while to achieve that control, just don't buy it and then you can't eat it! No temptations. Another way to enjoy these satisfying treats would be to find recipes online on how to make them at home with all natural ingredients, instead of filling yourself with artificial flavors and preservatives. Instead of reaching for the movie theater butter popcorn, snack on some Skinny Pop or pop your own and limit the toppings you apply. Replace milk chocolate with dark chocolate. Instead of a milkshake, devour a fresh smoothie.

3. Incorporate more fruits and vegetables in your diet.

If you're trying to gain weight, incorporate more proteins and healthy carbohydrates. Craving something sweet? Have a bowl of watermelon or some strawberries lightly sprinkled with sugar. Craving something salty? How about a cucumber tomato salad coated with some olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic. Go ahead and throw in some fresh mozzarella as well. These snacks don't need to be boring. A quick search in google or Pinterest will come up with plenty of interesting preparation ideas to keep your diet new and tasty.

4. Get into a routine.

This will be difficult, especially if you have a busy summer ahead with no set schedule. Plan your week ahead of time, or at least a day or two before. Set a time where you can workout. Whether that's going to the gym, going for a quick run, or simply doing some squats or push-ups in your room before you shower. DON'T OVERDO IT YOUR FIRST WEEK BACK. Take your time to get the hang of things again instead of overworking your muscles and ending up in pain the next day. Meal prep the day before so you have no excuse for bad eating due to not having time to cook and instead grabbing a burger from McDonald's.

5. Drink plenty of water!

Often times our body mistakes hunger for thirst so be sure to stay hydrated. Drinking water before meals also helps lead to the satisfying feeling of being full before you ingest more food than you need. Green tea is also a great drink to incorporate into your diet as well.

6. Last but not least, tell yourself that you are fully capable of doing this.

Keep a journal. You're going to have bad days. Bad weeks. And you're going to have fantastic ones. Don't pay attention to the scale. Water weight varies. Muscle weighs more than fat. The number means nothing. What matters is how you feel when you look in the mirror and whether or not you feel healthy.

Sometimes it's easier to do all this with a workout partner or cooking buddy. Someone to exchange ideas with and motivate each other. But it's okay if you don't have that. You are capable of keeping yourself in check. You have the willpower and self-control. You only need to learn to disciple yourself and you're set.