It’s hard in the cold winter months to find the motivation to keep fit. With the days shorter and darker, it’s not exactly the ideal motivation to get you up and going. And with the layers and thicker clothing to disguise your fading toned tummy and lean legs, it's difficult to maintain a slender physique.
The weather is warming up quick and the hot months are right around the corner, so you won't be able to hide in your baggy sweatshirts and loose jeans you've been living in all winter. The layers are coming off sooner than later so get ready! If you want that super trim and fit body come summertime, then you have to start now. No more excuses. No more procrastinating. It's go time TODAY..
1. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET.
Most people think all calories are processed the same way and that it's only about the numbers. Well, hate to break it, but that's not the case at all. Calories are not created equal and there is such a thing as quality calories. For example, the calories in a piece of chicken are much better than the calories in a candy bar, and the calories in a doughnut are not processed the same way the calories in an apple are.
Stay away from any processed carbs or foods, artificial sugars, and fat. Stick to a more wholesome diet and eat nutrient-rich, quality calories like eggs, chicken, quinoa, and vegetables. To continue eating healthy, plan out your meals in advance to refrain from making poor decisions when you get hungry or making a quick fast food stop.
2. CARDIO.
Find cardio exercises that are fast paced and get your heart pumping, like interval training. Try to fit in at least 30 minutes to an hour of cardio 5 days a week. If you’re struggling to fit that into your schedule, don’t give up. If you can find at least 15 minutes to do a workout that gets your heart pumping a couple of times a day. So there shouldn't be any excuses!
3. STRENGTH TRAINING
Even though cardio can do a whole lot of good for you, strength training is what will push you over the edge. It can help you get the final results you want and be the finishing touch to your success. Try working out by a mirror to stay motivated watching your body work hard.
4. DO THE LITTLE THINGS
When you’re not at the gym doing cardio or strength training, try to do the little things outside of the gym. By doing so, it will advance your progress and help you achieve your goals quicker. Here are some examples of the little things you can do during the day that make a big impact and burn extra calories.
- Park farther away in the parking lot so you have to walk further
- Take the stairs instead of riding the elevator
- Sit up straight in your office chair
- Take your dog out for a walk
- Do sit ups during the commercial breaks when you watch tv
- Pace when you're on the phone
- Fidget and move around so you are never completely still
- Take the long route
- Do calf raises while you wash the dishes
- Laugh more throughout the day
Time to start thinking about your summer body now.
WARNING: This post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFit assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article.
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