How To Stay On Track With Health & Fitness This Summer
It’s all about being mindful and maintaining balance.
Whether you enjoy a fast-paced summer packed with weekend plans or you prefer to wind down and go into full relaxation mode, it can be tough to stay on track with your fitness goals. There are so many contributing factors to getting side-tracked, like all of the delicious summer BBQs, sipping drinks and snacking by the pool, sacrificing your sleep for socialization, the list goes on. We want to help you find a happy medium, so you don’t have to give up on health and fitness completely during the summer! It’s all about being mindful and maintaining balance.
We’ve compiled a list of 5 tips to help you stay on track with health and fitness this summer:
Tip #1: Move your body
You don’t have to hit the gym to move your body. Get outside, enjoy the beautiful summer weather and get your blood pumping. Even better, there are so many more outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in the summertime. It’s a great opportunity to try something new that you can’t practice outside during colder seasons, like tennis or beach volleyball. Additionally, if you're on a trip, try to see the sights on foot. If you can, wake up a little earlier and choose to walk or bike to work. The little things make a difference!
Tip #2: Don’t skip meals
If you have plans after lunch or after dinner, don’t skip meals to try to accommodate them. Skipping meals commonly leads to the reverse effect and you will end up overeating. Instead, think about what you might anticipate eating while at your plans and schedule your day around it. This may mean eating lower in carbs and fats throughout the day. Eating meals higher in protein leading up to your plans will help keep you full, that way you don’t overeat later on. It’s all about being balanced; you can still indulge in yummy food and drinks, you just have to be mindful!
Tip #3: Calorie-wise Drinks
The reality for many people is that with summer typically comes more drinking. Since alcoholic drinks are known as “empty calories”, be mindful of your intake. A helpful tip is to opt for vodka, gin, or tequila with soda/water as these are lower in calories and sugar. Riesling wine and champagne are also great calorie-wise options. Everything in moderation!
Tip #4: Cravings
You’re bound to experience temptations and cravings being surrounded by delicious summer food. It’s important to allow yourself to give in to cravings and enjoy these foods every once in a while. By not being restrictive and depriving yourself, you reduce the chances of binge eating and going completely off track with your summer health goals.
Tip #5: Plan and prepare
Summer is a busy time, and it’s easy to go through drive-thrus and stop at convenience stores when you’re on the road or in a hurry. This can easily throw off your summer health and fitness goals, so instead, plan ahead! If you’re on a road trip, pack healthy snacks. If you’re going to a pot-luck, bring a healthy option. This way you’ll always have something healthy to count on. When you’re prepared it’s easier to make choices that are reflective of your health and fitness goals.
Staying on track with your health and fitness goals doesn’t have to feel restrictive, sacrificial or unrealistic. You can enjoy all summer has to offer by being mindful, planning ahead, and balancing your indulgence with healthy choices. Remember, this is a lifestyle you’re building, so choose things that work for you and make you happy!