Things get quiet around here each summer and it’s not just because the snow birds head north. Between kids being out of school, vacations and other commitments, many people start to neglect their own fitness.
If you are feeling yourself start to slip, I’ve got some advice.
- Redefine what consistency looks like. Maybe you’re used to coming in four to five days a week when things aren’t as hectic as in the summer months. If so, commit to two to three days instead with an emphasis on strength training. Don’t foster an all-or-nothing mentality. Even one day is vastly better than zero.
- On a week vacation? Don’t stress if you don’t work out or it’s not perfect when you do. One week can give your body much-needed rest and you won’t “lose everything” in a week.
- On an extended vacation? Cardio is easy on vacation, but make an effort to lift weights. Keep up with our workouts, even if you have to modify with dumbbells in a hotel gym. Or seek out a local gym that offers short-term memberships or day passes and get in there a few days a week to do a strength training session. I can even help you find a gym, just ask. Believe me, you will be so glad you did.
- Vacations aren’t an excuse to eat and drink like it’s your last meal every day. Keep nutrition simple, but not perfect. Order protein, vegetable and a healthy carb when eating out. Stock your AirBNB with healthy food. Start each day with 50 grams of protein so you’re not behind. Pack healthy snacks. Hydrate.
- Set a goal. I’m not talking about a massive goal, just a small one such as the number of days you will commit to strength training or how many steps you will achieve or how much protein you will eat daily or the sleep you will get. When the going gets tough, remember your why. Visualize your success.
Speaking of goals, I am leading a Summer Goal-Setting Session for Vero Strength members on Saturday, June 21 at 10 AM. I will walk you through setting a S.M.A.R.T. goal for the summer and help you map out the steps to achieving it. This is a members-only event and you can register HERE.
Don’t let summer be an excuse to abandon your health…think about how amazing you will feel when you stay in control.
