I definitely classify myself as a “Fitness Fanatic”!  I am fanatical about looking and feeling my best. I love living with energy and vitality. I get a true “high” when I’m doing my fitness regimen and feel exhilarated when I’m done! And it shows that I’m committed to this healthy lifestyle.  I walk the talk when I share how I keep fit and healthy!  And especially in summer, there’s no excuse to not get outside and engage in some type of physical activity. What is the best exercise for you?  Well…it’s the one you enjoy the most and the one you are committed to do!

Now is the perfect time to revamp your fitness routine and ensure you look and feel your best too. Whether you’re a fitness fanatic like me or just getting started, I know these tips will help you achieve that summer glow and carry it through the rest of the year and beyond if you adopt these habits. 

1. Hydration is Key

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the hotter months. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body functioning optimally. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased performance, so always carry a water bottle with you.  How much water should you drink? The experts recommend half your body weight in ounces each day…but you definitely need more when it’s blazing hot. Plain water can be boring…so I add some cut up produce like cukes, lemons, berries or mint to make it tastier and more interesting.  

2. Embrace Outdoor Workouts

Many of us are stuck inside in the winter, so take advantage of the beautiful weather by incorporating outdoor workouts into your routine. Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face doing activities like hiking, cycling, beach volleyball, pickleball and tennis or golf. Not only are these great workouts, but it also allows you to soak up some Vitamin D which is critical to maintaining a healthy immune system.  

3. Incorporate High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Have you heard of HIIT workouts? These workouts are designed for those looking to maximize their calorie burn in a short amount of time. These workouts alternate between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity or rest, helping you get the most out of your exercise routine. More burn in less time!  I’m in!!

4. Focus on Core Strength

A strong core – your abs – is the foundation of a fit body. We need fit core muscles to improve our posture, keep our backs strong, and have great performance in our everyday activities too! There are so many fun and unique ways to train your abs like doing crunches, planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. 

5. Stay Consistent with Your Routine

Put fitness first on your daily “to do” list. Consistency is key to seeing results. You can’t do it every so often and think that’s good enough. It’s definitely not!  Create a workout schedule which fits your lifestyle and stick to it. Make it a non-negotiable like I do to “commit to be fit’ each and every day.  Even on days when you’re short on time, a quick 20-minute workout can make a big difference as it all adds up.

6. Food is Key to Fitness Success

I’m a vegan so my diet is richly filled with organic fruits, vegetables, berries, plant proteins, nuts, whole grains, and healthy fats. But eating healthy, organic meats is good for building and maintaining healthy muscle too. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks, and plan your meals so you avoid health stealing mistakes by grabbing a less than healthy option. Consider meal prepping to ensure you have healthy options available.  Keep your fridge stocked with cut up fruit & veggies so it’s easy to grab…especially on the run.  

7. Supplement your Diet with Whole Food Nutrition

We can’t possibly get all the great nutrition we need for health from the food we eat. The quality of our food sources has declined and there is not enough nutrient density even in organic fruits & veggies which are obviously the better choice. Plus, so much of our food is processed and void of nutrition and loaded with empty calories. 

We need to fill in the gaps in our nutrition by supplementing with whole food nutrition concentrates which are more bioavailable than traditional vitamins. Through my research and own experience, I have found a perfect solution which is backed by more than 45 clinical studies published in health and medical journals.  My answer has been Juice Plus+ which I have taken for the last 17 years.  I think you may find it perfect too so check it out at www.wildaboutjuiceplus.com

8. Get Enough Sleep

This is one area I struggle with. They say most people need 7-8 hours of restful sleep and I get maybe 6.  I’ve functioned on this all my life…but I should do better.  Your body recovers and rebuilds while you sleep.  Sleep deprivation is a performance killer…for both body and brain! 

9. Set Realistic Goals

What is your goal for fitness? Just staying healthy, fit, and lean?  Losing weight? Athletic and performance training? Setting achievable goals keeps you motivated and on track. Whether it’s running a 5k, lifting a certain amount of weight, or simply sticking to your workout routine for a month, having clear goals will help you stay focused and measure your progress.

10. Mix It Up

Avoid workout monotony by varying your exercises. Your body gets used to the same fitness routines and it’s harder to maintain or improve if you do the same things each day or week. Your body adapts and stagnation occurs, and this can be demoralizing. Why not try new classes, different workout routines, or even alternative fitness activities like paddle boarding or yoga. This keeps things interesting and challenges your body in new ways.

11. Don’t Quit and Don’t Make Excuses

Giving up is easy…staying committed to you and your healthy lifestyle takes focus and a “no excuses” attitude.  I know when I feel like blowing off a workout, I just imagine how much worse I will feel for cheating myself out of my chance to improve energy, health, and fitness! Just get it done…you will feel so accomplished and proud of yourself! 

My key to success is writing out a “to do” list each evening for the next day. Guess what the first thing on the list is?  Yes fitness! Now it may not be the first thing I do, but I don’t get to cross it off the list until it’s done!

12. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body feels and respond accordingly. If you’re feeling sore or fatigued, it’s good to take a rest day or choose a light activity like stretching or walking. Pushing through pain can lead to injuries, so it’s important to balance intensity with adequate rest.

13. Stay Motivated with Music

I totally get motivated working out to great music. I’ve created a summer workout playlist with my favorite high-energy songs, and you can do the same to keep you pumped during your workouts. Music can be a great motivator and make your exercise sessions more enjoyable.  It’s also a distraction from the challenging workout at hand. 

14. Find a Workout Buddy

Exercising with a friend boosts your motivation and makes your workouts more fun. Plus, having someone to share your fitness journey with can provide support and accountability. That’s why I love – and teach – group fitness classes.  We are accountable to each other and it’s fun to meetup with friends at the gym. 

15. Celebrate Your Achievements

Reward yourself for reaching your fitness milestones. Whether it’s treating yourself to a new piece of workout gear or enjoying a relaxing day at the spa, celebrating your successes will keep you motivated and committed to your fitness goals. Don’t celebrate by eating a hot fudge sundae…now that’s not a good reward…that’s sabotage!  

I truly believe if you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to looking and feeling fabulous this summer. Remember, fitness is a journey, and every step you take brings you closer to your goals. Stay dedicated, enjoy the process, and most importantly, have fun! Your fitness fanatic…Kat