The sun is shining and days are much longer. With the kids out of school, barbecues, picnics, patio drinks and other social gatherings filling the calendar, are you struggling to maintain your fitness and healthy eating habits?
It can be difficult to continue with your usual routine and carve out time for training during the summer and over vacation. Here are some ideas to help you make fitness fit into your schedule.
Schedule your training for early in the day. When the temperature is creeping toward 30 degrees and you are already covered in sweat just from stepping outside it is easy to find excuses. Get your workout done and out of the way before it gets too hot and other plans creep their way between you and your fitness goals. A quick strength training routine or cardio session will make a huge difference in your energy levels for the day.
Bust out the backyard games at your next barbecue or picnic and challenge your friends and family to a game of tag, soccer or touch football. Get everyone active and have some fun while you raise your heart rate.
The thought of turning on the oven and heating up an already unbearably hot house is the last thing I want to do. Skip a night of cooking and beat the heat with a salad for dinner. Try to include each color of the rainbow for some great nutrients. If planning to heat something up or lighting the barbecue, consider making additional portions for planned leftovers for the next day.
Watch your drinking! When it is as hot as it has been, staying hydrated is important. Not all beverages are created equal. I like a summer cocktail or cold beer as much as the next person, but these aren’t thirst quenching drinks. Keep this and all the extra calories in mind while enjoying in moderation.
If you are looking to cool down with a sweet treat, consider a fruit smoothy or a fresh margarita. Trade in those artificial sugars and take advantage of summer produce with fresh fruits and vegetables.
What it comes down to: you don’t have to skip out on summer fun and great tastes because of your health and fitness goals. Include fitness and healthy eating into your summer plans and stay on track.
