Summer Shape-Up Tips

Throughout the long, dark, rainy winter months, I heard someone talk about the summer. The discussion revolved around how much easier it would be to stay in shape if the weather was better because they can run or bike.

Now that it has arrived, the days are much longer, giving people more hours to exercise outdoors. Also, the motivation to stay in shape is higher due to less clothing and the chance of being seen in swimwear.

We just made it through one of our big summer holidays, the Fourth of July. I’m not sure what you did, but at my house, we barbecued. Also, because it was a rare, sunny Independence Day in the Pacific Northwest, margaritas sounded excellent.

We have to wait quite a while for our summer weather, but once it happens, it feels like we shouldn't have to go back to work. We fear it's going to be gone tomorrow if we don't take the time to enjoy the nice weather.

We like to barbecue with friends, lounge with an ice cold beer on the deck. Warm weather leads to lazy days at the pool. And lets not forget great food, drinks and less activity. Hopefully you are one of the smart people who use summer to increase your outdoor fitness and eat lighter fare. If you're like me, and you find yourself having a harder time keeping extra weight off, the following tips are for you.

1. Exercise first thing in the morning. For starters, the weather is cooler, making an outdoor run or bike ride more enjoyable. Waiting until later in the day makes it easier to come up with excuses and not exercise at all. By getting your workout in early, you can also feel better if you do indulge a little at those barbecues.
2. Choose an event to train for. Ideally, find a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, bike race or triathlon that you can participate in late in the summer or early fall. This will give you an incentive to keep working out.
3. Grill grill grill. Usually it’s not the actual grilled food that is bad for you at barbecue parties. It’s the potato salad, macaroni salad, cookies, pies and all the other unhealthy accompaniments. Your grill can be used for delicious and healthy fish, chicken and shrimp, and also for grilled fruits and vegetables. Skewers (shish kebabs) make a beautiful presentation and can be loaded with colorful veggies. You should also consider grilled pineapple, apples, peaches and mangos. Get creative.
4. At parties, load up on healthy options first. Fill your plate with fruit, vegetables and lean meats before opting for the unhealthier sides. Take your time eating, preferably away from the food table. Have a conversation with someone while you enjoy your food. Then, if you are still wanting dessert, take a small piece.
5. Avoid empty calories. All right. I’m going to be That Girl. Alcohol has an abundance of empty calories. Some drinking tips I try to follow (notice, I said try) are to begin with a glass of water. Make sure you have one glass of water in between each drink. Sip slowly. Only fill your glass halfway.

I hope these five tips will keep you focused throughout the summer. Unlike our winter vacation, this does not end after a week or two. Write down your goals and post them somewhere conspicuous. Allow yourself some flexibility to enjoy some treats, just factor a little extra time in at the gym! Happy summer everyone.