SUMMER STRATEGIES FOR STAYING IN SHAPE

Summertime and the living is easy. Barbecues, beach picnics and cocktail parties signify summer fun. However, this doesn’t mean that you should slack on your exercise routine. Don’t forget you’ll be baring more skin wearing shorts and swimsuits.

Here are a few proven strategies to help keep you in shape all summer long:

  1. Buddy up! Instead of lounging in beach chairs catching up with friends how about forming a weekly walking or running group? You’ll socialize and burn calories at the same time. And, of course, lounging once in a while is good for your soul.

  2. Keep your running shoes close by. When packing up the car with beach chairs and umbrellas, don’t forget to throw in your running shoes. That glorious beach or lakefront can become your workout place.

  3. Add a new exercise routine/sport to your summer fun. Boost up your cardio by doing jumping jacks, playing volleyball, throwing a frisbee or doing planks on your favorite dock.

  4. Don’t neglect your proven workout. Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean that you should stop your successful routines. Keep walking 10,000 steps and keep your appointments with your trainer. You’ll be glad you did.

Holiday Health

HOW TO MANAGE THE HOLIDAYS

Between the election last week and the upcoming holidays you may be feeling challenged on how to keep your fitness regime from unraveling.

Here are a few tips to help keep you on track:

1. Avoid dessert disaster. Buy the best chocolate you can find (80 percent or higher cacao) and give yourself one piece every day. You aren’t depriving yourself and you’re practicing moderation so when confronted with a wide array of desserts you won’t be as tempted.

2. Before attending parties, fill up by eating a lean, high-protein snack and drinking plenty of water. Limit alcohol to one drink if you possibly can.

3. Speaking of water. Drink up daily! Many times, we eat when we are actually dehydrated and thirsty. Drinking herbal teas and water can soften cravings.

4. Stick with your fitness routine.

5. Give the gift of exercise. Ask me about my beautifully boxed and wrapped gift certificates for your friends and family. (shown here.)