Bikini Bod By Summer

The sun is staying in the sky longer. The air is becoming warmer with each passing day. The beach is not far from our thoughts. Yes, we close our eyes and see the fun in sun just about here. Then we open our eyes. We look in the mirror and scream “No, not yet, I’m not ready”. We pinch our sides and notice our love handles have grown. Yikes. We stand straight and tall with our legs together and are they, oh goodness, they are touching. When did that happen? You slowly reach down and pinch your thighs. Yep, that is flab.  Is that actually a tummy roll? Who came and took over my body during the winter?

You gather together all the magazines for summer looks, quick diets, the perfect exercises to target your specific problem areas. And then you notice a magazine that talks about how to get that bikini body in a healthy way. That’s the one. You’re a health conscious lady who just got a bit side tracked over the winter.

We all know to get tight and toned abdominals; crunches are the gold standard. However, have you considered doing yoga or pilates? Both of these fitness styles will target your core and you will see results faster because you’re working your entire abdominal region. Crunches are great, but have you seen a dancer’s body? Tight and toned and not an inch of fat to be found. The same can be said for yoga, and you get the added benefit of relaxation to boot.

Now, for those thighs there are the standard lunges and lying on the floor and putting your legs in the air and peddling. Or you can pick up your bike, wipe off that inch or two of dust and start using it. The added benefit with cycling is that you’re getting fresh air and sunshine, working your legs, and you feel better after your ride. There is a sense of accomplishment in a great bike ride.

One of the best ways to get the bikini body you’re looking for is to mix up your exercise routine. Do cardio one day, try a bit of weight training at the gym another day, which is great for building muscle and getting that nice lean look you’re aiming for. And then mix it up with some targeted pilates or yoga on other days. Remember to do some well earned stretches before and after your exercise routines. The next step is key and without it you’re cheating yourself from the body you’re looking for: healthy eating.

Healthy eating is not as difficult as it sounds. You can choose to throw away everything in your kitchen cabinets and refrigerator, or you can simply replace the high calorie snacks with fresh fruit and vegetables. Replace foods that are high in saturated fats with those loaded with good fats and low in calories. Start drinking more water, at least five to six eight ounce glasses per day. Eat smaller portions more often throughout the day. This will help you avoid the dips in your energy caused by low blood sugar. Grazing throughout the day will help curb your hunger.

Don’t forget walking every day. You can use small weights that you carry in your hands or on your wrists and legs for an added strength workout. Again, the benefits are you’re losing weight, getting fresh air, and don’t forget to get your friends to join you.

Start shopping around for your favorite bikini. Hang it where you can see it every day. Use this as a motivator to stay committed to your new fitness routine and eating healthy. And you will see the weight fall off before you know it.