When we talk about getting your mind and body ready for summer, it’s easy to start freaking out about how we are going to look on the beach, because this is what we have been conditioned to do. But we say, who cares how you look, it’s about how you FEEL. So, we’ve put together 10 of our very best tips for getting your mind and body feeling as amazing as that holiday sun should do.
- Sweat it out
It’s no secret that working cardio into your workout routine is great for burning fat and keeping your heart and lungs working well, but it’s proven that it’s exactly this form of exercise that encourages the release of the wonder-hormone; endorphins. Now you’ve probably heard us mention these before, but that’s because we just can’t get enough. Working up a sweat is usually a good sign you’re working your heart hard enough to release ‘em, so don’t shy away from it. Endorphins boost your confidence too, so you’ll soon forget any worries you had about donning a swimsuit on the beach!
- Outdoor workouts
Step outside! If you feel like you’re experiencing Groundhog Day every morning at the gym, it’s time to switch it up a little. There’s little better than watching the ever changing sights of the wonderful natural world around us. Spring is a time for new life, so why not get amongst it whilst you pump your body. Breathing in fresh air and soaking up some Vitamin D will boost your mood, whilst also reminding you of the sunny days you have to look forward to. There’s a whole host of outdoor workouts you can get involved with in a city near you, so there’s no excuse not to get outdoors!
- Make it fun
As we mentioned earlier, we know that feeling when you’re stuck in a workout rut and are super uninspired by your trusty treadmill. Step away from the machine and get creative! Whether it’s rollerdisco-ing, trampolining, bouldering or barre, we challenge you to think outside the box when it comes to getting your sweat on. You might even discover you’re a dab hand at badminton and show your pals who’s boss on your hols!
- Fit in your fitness
Taking the stairs can often be the last thing you want to do, but once you get in the habit of it, you’ll never consider the lift again. This tip’s an oldie but we think it’s one of the easiest ways to squeeze in getting fit into your everyday routine. You can feel that summer holiday fast approaching, but you’re worried about how you’re going to make time for the gym 5 days a week. Good news, you don’t have to! It’s easy to feel lazy or guilty on your ‘off days’ and in turn this can discourage you from your goal (whatever that may be). So keep up the stamina: take the stairs, get off the bus a few stops early, run to the gym, do a few reps of your shopping bags. However you fit it in we want to hear about it.
- New threads
Get yourself down to your nearest gym gear retailer and treat yourself to some new threads. We’re fans of Sweaty Betty’s super comfy leggings, but even a pack of new trainer socks can be the boost you need to inspire you to get moving. If you do turn to a spot of retail therapy, set aside an extra bit of time to really get to know your body and what works for you. The difference between feeling uncomfortable and feeling confident in your clothes is very often down to finding the right size and tailoring to suit you – and this goes for workout gear too!
- Sleep
Ever feel like everyone’s out to get you when you’re running on a bad night’s sleep? We feel ya. It’s natural to get grouchy when you haven’t had your 8 hours, and there’s a science to why. But did you know that the opposite is also true? Having a good night’s sleep can not only make you feel fresh but fearless too. So make sure you value your bedtime and enjoy some good quality sleep to get you feeling fighting fit and unstoppable in time for the summer months.
- Banish insecurities
We’re all about body positivity here at Profusion, and no matter where you are on your fitness journey, we believe the first step is to treat your body with the kindness it deserves. Dislike a particular part of your body? Cover up your arms on a boiling hot day? We think that making small steps every day to overcome these insecurities is the best way to embrace every inch of you. Start off small in the comfort of your own home. Stand in front of the mirror for 10 minutes and list 3 positives for every negative you think of. Step a little further out of your comfort zone each day and come summer, you’ll have forgotten what you were ever worried about.
- Self Care
This buzz phrase is buzzing for a reason, self care is a crucial part of loving the skin you’re in. However you like to treat yourself, taking time out of your day to look after yourself is a major part of accepting your body and feeling content with it. Self care can seep into all aspects of your life, but we think a great way to start is to organise a date with yourself – an hour or 2 a couple of times a week where you do things that make you happy. Whether that be having a bath, painting your nails, working through your favourite yoga routine or doing a salt scrub – find what works for you!
- Mirage motivation
You might feel like your summer holidays are just out of reach at the moment, but visualising what you’re going to do when you finally get there can be just the motivation you need to keep up with your workout routine. Don’t let that beach break be a distant mirage – keep a list of things you want to do on your holidays at hand as a daily reminder of what you have to look forward to. Pin up the list in your office, put a picture of your destination as your desktop background, and install a holiday countdown on your phone. All of these little teasers are healthier goals to work towards than a number on the scales.
- Don’t sweat it, it’s a marathon not a race
And lastly, you want to work up a sweat, but don’t sweat it if you don’t wake up tomorrow looking and feeling like a swimwear model. These things take time, and being hard on yourself is only going to make things feel like a chore. Slow and steady wins the race – you can do it!