With all this wonderful weather we have been having, it can be easy to loose motivation and get out of our usual health and fitness routines. We attend a few more barbecues, weddings, parties and jet off on holidays to relax and enjoy ourselves – I mean, that’s what summer’s for, right?!
But we all know the reality is, with less activity, more delicious food and increased consumption of cocktails by the pool, it’s easy to get little unfit and feel unhealthy at a time we’re wanting to feel our best.
Here are my top five tips for enjoying summer and keeping an eye on your health and fitness at the same time.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Our bodies need around two litres of water a day to stay hydrated. With the temperature unusually high this summer, it’s even more vital you keep hydrated so it’s worth aiming for even more water! What many people might not realise is that drinking plenty of water can help prevent you from overeating. If you feel the hunger pangs it can be a sign you’re dehydrated – you might just be thirsty.
For lunch time, choosing a healthy and filling soup is a great way to boost your liquid intake, while ensuring you get all the vitamins and minerals you need to power you through the day.
Take part in active activities on holiday
While on holiday, trying out a new activity can be a great way to keep fit and have fun at the same time! Most beach resorts have surf schools, paddle board centres, jet ski hire and so much more.
If you’re not much of a thrill seeker, doing a few lengths in the pool each day, a run along the beach or a meander around the local town are great ways to keep you active.
Snack on voluminous healthy foods
It’s so easy to head straight for the tasty looking snacks and sweet treats, once in a while this is totally fine everything in moderation, right? But, to avoid getting stuck in this trap try to stick a few pieces of fruit or veg to snack on, twice a day. Foods packed with water, such as watermelon or chopped up cucumber, are ideal for all this hot weather as they’re both cooling and voluminous.
Exercise with friends
The thought of working out in the hot summer sun is enough to put anyone off exercising, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Choosing to exercise first thing in the morning will give you a cool workout before the hotter temperatures set in later in the day. Book your friend in for a short morning run or exercise class. You’re far less likely to bail if you’re working out with a friend.
Embrace mindful drinking
Finally, keep in mind what you’re drinking. Some drinks have lots of hidden calories, especially alcohol. If you want to drink alcohol, perhaps opt for gin with slim line tonic. However, opting for a low sugar cordial or lime and soda will keep you far healthier this summer.
Integrating these small and simple changes into your day will help boost your health and fitness over the rest of the summer. Enjoy!
By: Health blogger Beth Heddle