Staying Healthy this Season
This time of year, a lot of us are concerned with getting our bodies ready for swimsuit season. For those of us working on a major long-term weight loss goal, summer can be another distraction. At times, summer itself can be a motivation for weight loss. The weather is nice, there are plenty of fresh fruits and veggies in grocery stores, and we can participate in plenty of outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, cycling, and running. However, this time of year can also cause many setbacks because of family gatherings and cookouts with ribs, hot dogs, and other high calorie dishes. It can be hard to figure out how to balance a healthy lifestyle and weight loss with the enjoyment of all that summer has to offer. Here are my tips for staying on track this season.
Plan Ahead
Plan all of your meals and workouts for the whole week ahead of time, so you're not trying to throw everything together at the last minute. If you decide to add plans with a friend for the day, you'll already have your food ready to go and you'll be less likely to eat something bad. Allow some substitutions in case you decide to eat out at a restaurant. You can check the menu ahead of time so you can find a healthier option before you go, and you can have a snack beforehand so you're less tempted to eat something that isn't as good for you.
Bring your own food
If you are at a family gathering or out at a cookout and you are worried about the high calorie food options, bring your own healthy foods to eat. You may be surprised to find how many other people want to eat them too. Fill up your plate with veggies and fruit instead of chips and fries. Then, you can indulge in a burger or hot dog without feeling so guilty.
Add a Physical Activity
Try to add a physical activity to food gatherings and cookouts. Go for a hike or round up all of the kids and adults for a game of volleyball, or go swimming and have a race. It's easy during the summer to add an activity to an event.
Early Morning Workouts
To stay on track by scheduling your workouts for early in the morning before the day starts and it gets too hot outside. If you wait until the end of the work day, you will be too tired from the heat and won't have the energy to get moving.
Take a breather
Grab your partner or best friend and try to add a nightly walk or bike ride to your day. It's a good way to connect with loved ones and hear about each other's days while also getting in a little extra activity.
Treat yourself
The most important tip I have is to allow yourself a treat every now and then; just don't go overboard. If you completely restrict yourself, you will end up being miserable and will most likely not be able to stay on track with your eating habits. A treat will give you something to look forward to, and you'll be less likely to binge if you are allowed to indulge every now and then.
Losing a major amount of weight during the summer is possible, and it's very rewarding to know you are putting in the effort to make yourself healthier. I hope these simple tricks can help you reach your weight loss goals.