18 Ways to Get In Shape for Summer

(Video: 18 Ways to Get In Shape for Summer)

At the onset of spring, people start to prepare for the summer – strappy sundresses, warm days, and the beach. It’s time to show off your favorite bikini. Bust out of your slacking winter mood and work on a fitter, healthier body.

The best time to start on that desired summer shape is now. Pull out your notes and remember these fail-safe tips.

1.) Set responsible and realistic goals for yourself. You can’t have J.Lo’s body in two weeks. Write down your development to keep track of what you do.

2.) Consider a diet that’s suitable for you. The low-carb diet is a great way to gorge on summer fruits and vegetables. Put down the white bread! Gluten free is also a popular and effective choice. Going on a major protein diet, like chicken meat, lentils, nuts, tofu and fish, will help strengthen your muscles.

3.) Eat the real deal. Make better food choices by foregoing processed foods.

4.) In case of munchies, try snacking on hard boiled eggs, low-fat natural yogurt, strawberries, and pickled cucumbers. They’re delicious and calorie free!

5.) Always choose the clear vegetable soup.

6.) Don’t avoid fat at all. Being fit doesn’t mean zero fat. Eat healthy, omega-3 fats found in tuna, sardines, ground flax seeds and walnuts.

7.) Minimize your sugar intake which also meant zero alcohol and zero soda intakes, not even a diet soda.

8.) Hydrate every time and every day. Drink water habitually. It clears the skin and curbs the appetite.

9.) Move! There is no lazing around. Move more everyday and practice the daily 10,000 steps. Make it a habit. You can also begin with a 30 to 45 minute walk.

10.) Start the sprinting habit.

11.) Running, even on a slower pace, is still the best calorie burner. Start with an initial 3 to 5 mile goal for beginners and move on to faster and longer miles every week.

12.) Give strength training a go. Lift weights and initiate with lighter dumbbells to avoid injuries. This won’t only strengthen the muscles but will give your arms a nice tone and definition. Perfect for bikini tops!

13.) Squatting daily will gain you better quadriceps, calves and boost muscle development in your entire body.

14.) Give your core muscles a proper workout by trying the Swiss ball roll-out. Just sitting and keeping the balance on the ball will create tension in the midsection and will greatly benefit the ab-toning process.

15.) Don’t forget to stretch your muscles before and after working out.

16.) Always use the proper workout equipment and wear proper attire. Invest on a good pair of trainers to protect your ankles and feet.

17.) Workout with a buddy. It will be fun to encourage each other and watch your progress through your friend’s eyes.

18.) Laugh every day. Laughing not only promotes positive disposition but also increases metabolism and muscle tightening. Try daily 15 minute laughter to burn 40 calories daily. What a fun way to lose weight!

Following these with discipline and motivation is a surefire way of having that sexy summer body. Your should always have that goal in your mind and be inspired by it.

Keep track of your diet and workout plan even after the summer is over so by next year, it’s all rinse-and-repeat!