By: Xcel Performance

Some of you are probably feeling the change in weather and are already making plans to soak in some sun, explore the world, and take in summer’s many pleasures. For many, it is the perfect time to work on that beach body right during the season itself. Whether you are a long-time fitness enthusiast or starting your journey with the summer’s motivational swell here are a few ways you can start making healthy habits during the warmer seasons to stay fit and fed!

Firstly, start running. Whether you are a long-time runner or have never done it before running is a great way to get your heart rate up and work on your tan at the same time. If you are a beginner just focus on getting to a 5k or simply working on a faster overall mile. However, you approach it running is a great tool to take advantage of the weather and getting you out of the house or office for a 30-minute workout.

Secondly, start shopping at your local farmer’s market like you’re in a 17th-century village. This is the season of fresh produce and the salads are bountiful, so take advantage of the best you can and try to introduce more fruits and vegetables into your diet. One example coming from my wife who has made cherry tomatoes her go-to snack because she enjoys them the most. Myself have found that I can eat broccoli as a side almost every time for a meal. Now, these items may change during the seasons (such as for myself I eat a lot more sweet potatoes in the fall) but during summer the outdoor markets are ripe for the picking.

Thirdly drink water because your life depends on it. Especially during the hotter months, the average person needs 64 ounces of water per day and athletes sometimes more than that (this is also known as the 8×8 rule). With higher temperatures, so too are the increases for the bodies intake of water as it sweats and uses more energy in the heat. The summer then becomes the perfect season to start building water drinking habits. Buy a water bottle, decorate if you want, make it yours, but now you have a measurable unit where you can make small goals. If you have a two-liter bottle you can just say, “3-4 a day.” And carry your habits into the winter.

Lastly, find a local gym or recreational center and join a class or hire a personal trainer! Even with the sun peeking through the clouds may get you excited to start training at first but that motivation can be hard to keep up over the long haul, and knowing where to start or how to approach your goals can be difficult without the right information. Hiring a trainer or going to a class lead by a certified instructor will not only help give you mental motivation but physical guidance as well.