How to get in great shape for summer

Whether you’re looking to lose weight, tone up, or simply feel more confident in your own skin, summer is the perfect incentive to kick-start your fitness routine and get into great shape. If you’re wondering how to get a summer body, this guide will give you all the tips to get in shape and feel great.

Summer’s just around the corner!

Summer is fast approaching, so it's the ideal time to focus on your diet and fitness goals. Whether you'd like to shed a few pounds or boost your confidence, the good news is that there are many ways to get in great shape before the summer arrives. Here are our tips for getting in shape for summer and beyond.

Plan in advance

If you want this year to be the year you hit your fitness goals, you'll need a realistic plan of what you want to achieve, how you'll achieve it, and by when. Create a workout plan that fits around your schedule and includes a mix of strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. With a good plan, you'll feel more motivated and more likely to stick with your routine and achieve your health and fitness goals.

Move your body

Moving your body is key to getting into shape for summer. Being physically active will help you to burn calories, build muscle, improve your cardiovascular health, and boost your energy. Take regular breaks to stretch or walk around, walk or bike to work instead of driving, take the stairs instead of the elevator, swim, practice yoga or Pilates, or do some weightlifting. Even dancing will help you tone muscles, build strength and burn calories.

Hit the gym

Hitting the gym is a great way to help you get in great shape for the summer. It will give you access to a wide range of fitness equipment and expert support to help you reach your summer fitness goals. Whether you want to join a fitness class or are interested in weightlifting or cardio, a gym has everything you need. Most gyms also offer the services of a personal trainer who can help you devise an effective workout plan that suits your fitness levels and goals.

Attend classes

Fitness classes are a great way to get fit and healthy and meet new people. Classes offer a fun way to get active and stay motivated as you work towards your summer fitness goals. Classes like Body Sculpt can help with whole-body toning, Pilates and yoga can build your core strength, and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is great for cardio and strength. Aerobics classes can also help burn calories, improve flexibility and strength, and improve cardiovascular health. 

Get outdoors

Outdoor activities like swimming, sports, cycling, and hiking are a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. Taking your workout outside can also help you avoid getting bored, reduce stress and improve your mood. Choose outdoor activities that you enjoy and challenge your fitness levels and remember to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun while outside.

Focus on your nutrition

If you want to get in great shape for the summer, you need to focus on your nutrition. A healthy and balanced diet provides your body with the fuel to support your physical activity and fitness goals and help you maintain a healthy weight. Focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, choose lean proteins, and reduce or eliminate high-sugar and processed foods. 

Increase protein intake

To maximize your pre-summer workout routine, focus on your protein intake. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue and helps you feel full for longer, helping you manage your weight. It's, therefore, a good idea to ensure you have protein with every meal and choose lean protein sources such as beans, fish, and chicken. Also, ensure you're snacking on protein-rich foods such as nuts, Greek yogurt, or hard-boiled eggs, which will keep you fuller for longer. 

Stay hydrated

Keeping hydrated is essential for getting in shape for summer. When you're exercising, your body loses water through sweat, so you need to replenish your fluids regularly. You can keep hydrated by drinking at least eight to 10 glasses of water daily, avoiding sugar drinks that can dehydrate you. You can also eat hydrating foods such as fruit and vegetables like strawberries, watermelon, and cucumber.

Cut the Sugar

Cutting sugar from your diet is a great step towards getting in shape for summer. Too much added sugar can lead to inflammation, weight gain, and an increased risk of developing chronic diseases. Avoid food with corn syrup, high fructose, sucrose, and dextrose, and replace sugary drinks with unsweetened drinks, which are just as tasty but don't contain added sugars. If you have a sweet tooth, switch to sugar-free snacks, which are a much healthier alternative but will also satisfy your craving.

Learn more about the benefits of cutting down sugar in our blog.

Stay consistent & enjoy the process!

Staying consistent and enjoying the journey toward getting in great shape for summer is the key to success. But remember, building healthy habits takes time, effort, and commitment. You must approach your fitness journey with a positive mindset and make your new healthy habits part of your everyday lifestyle. Set realistic and achievable goals, breaking them down into smaller, more attainable milestones that focus on progress and improvement rather than perfection.

Speak to a professional for help

Speaking to a certified personal trainer or nutritionist is a great way to get personalized advice and support to help you get in great shape for the summer. They can work with you to create a fitness and diet plan that's healthy, sustainable, and works with your lifestyle.

Take the first step towards a healthier and fitter you for the summer by getting in touch with No Sugar Company to find out more about our range of sugar-free drinks and snacks. They are the perfect choice if you want to enjoy a tasty treat without added sugars spoiling your fitness goals.