Shape Up
for Summer
|
How can we get our bodies looking our physical best for summer?
The best and most effective way to tighten and tone our bodies for summer is lifting weights! Doing strength training three to four times a week will make a huge difference on how you look and feel this summer. I like to start a workout with an effective warmup, then move through six to eight movements—breaking up the muscle groups into push and pull, upper and lower body exercises. What about cardio? Your body needs both cardio and strength training to create your desired physique. I have found that for a lot of my clients, separating the cardio from strength training helps drive progress. My two personal favorite cardio workouts are steady state cardio and HIIT. Why is it important to have a plan at the gym? Walking into the gym without a plan is like walking into the grocery story with no list. If you don't know what you need, that’s okay! Hire someone to help you get started or to spark your interest again. Having a third party involved in your plan goes a long way when it comes to seeing results and reaching your goals. |
Do you have any tips for healthy eating?
Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Cook go-to staples like meats, carbs and roasted veggies ahead of time to have on hand so you can easily customize your lunch each day. Mix it up with different toppings, sauces or condiments. Creating balance will help curb cravings, so make sure each meal has some sort of lean protein, carbohydrate, vegetable and healthy fat source. Hungry for mac and cheese? That's fine, just measure how much you eat, and add grilled chicken and steamed broccoli to fill up faster and stay satisfied longer. Also a little dark chocolate never hurt anyone—just don't eat the whole bar in one sitting. Whatrole does mindset play in staying motivated and finding confidence? Mindset equals your thoughts plus your actions. It starts with you. Ask yourself what your “why” is. Do you have an event coming up you want to look your best for? Did your last doctor visit not go the way you had planned? Did you try on a suit or a pair of skinny jeans that no longer fit the way you remember? Once you establish that “why” you will be able to get to the gym even on days you don't feel like going. You only regret the workouts you didn't get off the couch and just do. Motivation can be fleeting, so make a plan, seek out ways to stay focused, and have someone hold you accountable. For more fitness tips and inspiration from Lydia, follow @lydia_sweets94 on Instagram. To schedule personal training sessions, online coaching and in-home workouts, email lydia.sweetser@gmail.com or text 312-857-5718. |