Get in summer shape

The thought of beach parties and beach barbecues gives some people a touch of anxiety, especially when they’ve slacked off on their diet and exercise regimes. It can be easy to put on weight during the winter months, but if you’re motivated to get into last year’s swimsuit, then there are many easy programs for weight loss available to help you achieve your diet goals. 

The basis of these weight loss plans is to transform your lifestyle by replacing bad eating habits with healthy ones. The good news is, you can change your lifestyle in small, manageable increments so that you don’t feel deprived and end up bingeing. Go at your own pace—adopt one habit a week, or every few days, and within a few weeks, you’ll feel better about busting out that swimsuit.     

Below is a list of healthy behaviors recommended by weight loss centers that can help you lose weight and get into better shape, and make you feel better about the upcoming summer months.

Hydrate. We can’t reiterate enough—drinking plenty of water is essential to weight loss. The key is to make it easy and convenient, so that you don’t feel like it’s a chore. Make sure to tote water bottles with you whenever you leave the house and prep pitchers in your refrigerator with slices of lemon, lime or cucumber to motivate you to drink more.

Lighten up. When you downsize your portions and eat lighter foods, you’ll quickly see results. Either use smaller plates or only fill between two-thirds and three quarters of your plate, and aim to eat more salads, fresh fruits, cold soups and lean sources of protein such as salmon, chicken and tuna.  

Eliminate processed foods. One of the quickest ways to see results with easy programs for weight loss is to cut out anything processed, especially junk food. If you can’t eliminate them altogether, then try to slowly wean yourself.

Move it. Start going to the gym regularly and mix up your workouts. Try to integrate cardio and strength training, as well as flexibility programs such as yoga or Pilates classes. If you just can’t stand the thought of working out on some days, at the very least, get outside and walk or run. Getting outdoors is excellent for your well-being. If you haven’t exercised in a while, consult a physician at one of the weight loss centers in your area to determine the safest way for you to get back into it. 

image: healthmeup.com