Get fit for summer
Without layers of clothing to hide excess weight in the summer months, most people head†to the nearest gym to get fit for summer.† While following a weight loss diet is essential to having a slimmer shape, you can meet your weight goals much faster if you combine your diet with a regular fitness routine.
Some people are able to exercise regularly at home while others find it more effective to work out in a gym that has a wide range of fitness equipment and good personal trainers. What counts is that you get enough exercise in time for summer.
Here are some ideas that you can use to get fit for summer:
Weigh yourself regularly
Your current weight is your starting point and will serve as the basis of your weight loss goal.† After you determine how much you intend to weigh, set realistic time frames for losing weight gradually.† Break your weight goal into small and reachable goals to keep you motivated.† Weigh yourself everyday and record your weight in a journal.† Watching your weight helps you maintain focus on your goal and may warn you when you fall off your weight loss plan.
Choose the best time to workout
While there is a lot of debate going around about what time of day maximizes an exercise routine, finding the time to workout in your busy schedule should be the best time for you. Working out in the morning is a great way to start your day and is known to boost your metabolism. Some believe that exercising muscles that have been at rest all night long burns more calories than moving muscles that have been working all day long.†
On the other hand, some scientists maintain that muscle strength is at its peak in the late afternoon, which should be the best time for you to work out. Working out at night may not be ideal for those who have sleeping problems.† Bear in mind that running 5 miles on the treadmill at 6 a.m. will burn the same amount of calories if you run the same distance at 4 p.m. or at 8 p.m.
Follow a fitness routine
A combination of resistance training and cardiovascular exercises works best to lose excess weight and shape your body.† Your workout routine may include effective exercises like the squat, bench press, overhead press, deadlift, various abs workouts, and some cardiovascular exercises such as spinning, running and dancing.
If you work out in a gym, ask a qualified personal trainer to draw up an exercise routine for you to follow to help you get fit for summer. A personal trainer can also monitor your progress and modify your routine when some sets start to feel too easy.
Include stretching
Stretching is an important part of exercise. Ideally, you should stretch before and after each workout. Stretching increases flexibility, improves the range of motion of your joints, improves your blood circulation and relaxes your body as you cool down from a workout.
Maintaining a healthy body all year-round is easier and healthier than losing excess weight only in the summer time. By exercising regularly and making healthy food choices, you can get fit for summer and the whole year through.
