With the summer holidays rushing towards us, you have only just got time to get into shape so that you will look good in your swim wear. Owners of a gym membership can always start to go again but it is not worth taking out expensive membership now. Lets face it if you are not a member now you will only let it lapse until next year. There are other ways to get in shape that won’t cost a fortune.
The secret is to incorporate exercise into your daily routine so that instead of taking the lift to your office, use the stairs. This is not to be rushed at. First, always use the stairs to descend, then when you have built up a bit of stamina, start climbing the stairs. Those in tall buildings should start by taking the lift to the floor below and then two floors and so on. If you don’t work in a tall building, try getting off the bus one stop before your office and walk the rest. You could even go to two stops or do the same on the way home. If you take the tube to work, the stairs are a lot more daunting, so only go down until you think you could manage climbing up them. All this extra exercising will take time so you have to leave home earlier than usual. Don’t sabotage yourself by being late for work and so give yourself a reason for using the lift.
That has given the legs a work out, now for the arms. As you leave the supermarket, try to get an even amount of weight of shopping in each hand. As you walk lift your arms slowly until they are straight in front of you, hold for a few seconds and slowly drop back. Then you repeat the exercise with your arms now out from your sides. Do this as many times as you can before you reach your car or whilst waiting for the bus or taxi. The odd looks you receive will be far outweighed by the flattering comments you will get in your bikini.
The body is not the only thing that needs exercising, the face will benefit too. You can do a lot with make up and regular moisturising but for real results you will need some facial exercises. Choose isometric type facial exercises, to really add shape and tone to your face. It will also help tighten any sagging skin. Just because you are young, don’t think that these are not for you. It is never too early to start your facial exercises as you will be keeping those youthful looks when all your friends are thinking about lifts and botox.
Whilst on the face, don’t forget to use sun blocker. Yes we all love a good tan but too much too soon is not good for your skin. At best your face will age quicker at worst you run the risk of skin cancer. This doesn’t mean you have to spend the days under a parasol, it just means to be careful. Remember your face is in the sun even when you are not sunbathing.
In summer time you will be wearing a lot of open toed shoes, sandals and flip-flops so you need to get your feet in shape. Those with plenty of money can afford a trip to the beauty salon for a professional pedicure. Those on a more limited budget can always do it at home whilst watching a good DVD.
Losing weight is a worry that many suddenly want to do. By now, it is a bit too late to achieve much and a crash diet may be positively harmful as you will be denying your body of the vital vitamins and minerals that it needs to counter the effects of the sun. Three or four weeks before your holiday, eat foods rich in beta carotene such as broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, romaine lettuce fresh thyme and cantaloupe melons. Vitamin C is also important, so eat more fruit rather than taking supplements as the increase in fibre will also be beneficial. What you can do is to cut out chocolate, crisps and other highly processed food. Drink more water rather than sugary colas and other drinks.
If you still need convincing, perhaps try on your swimsuit from last year and look in the mirror. Whilst you are looking, check out the summer clothes. Keep the classics but ditch those that were only a passing phase. Do a little retail therapy and get some new threads, remembering what will mix and match from last year. It is amazing what can be revived. Throw in a couple of pairs of shoes and maybe top it off with a rakish hat and you are ready to take on the world.
