The Top 5 WORST Ways to Get in Shape for Summer
The unofficial start to SUMMER is just a few weeks away! Gyms haven’t been this busy since New Year’s Day while people scramble to get that bikini bod. Remember, healthy eating and consistent exercise are the not-so-secret keys to get in shape year-round!
NOW, more than ever, is the time we often see unhealthy get-in-shape behaviors soar. In case you’re thinking of partaking in one of these dangerous behaviors, think again!
Here are the top 5 worst ways to get in shape for summer:
1. Eliminating a food group to drop lbs fast.
It started with the low-carb craze and the latest culprit is gluten-free. Unless you have a true allergy or intolerance, eliminating any food group from your diet is unhealthy and simply not necessary.
2. Exercising excessively to eat (or drink) your deficit
Many people believe that if the treadmill tells them they burned 400 calories, then they can go eat ANY 400 calories to maintain their weight. FALSE! First, every body burns calories differently. Second, these machines often miscalculate your burn. Third, your primary motivation to exercise shouldn’t be to eat junk food (plan for treats within an otherwise nutritious diet). Exercise should fit into an all-around healthy lifestyle…like fitting in some resistance while your kids finish their homework! 
3. Cleansing
Whether you’re juicing or trying the latest ice cream cleanse, I’m not a fan. Sure, enjoy a green juice to rehydrate you after a workout, but pure juice consumption for 5 days? No, thank you…I have a liver, kidneys, and colon for that!
- Opt to “eat clean” instead of an extreme cleanse. Choose a mixture of veggies, fruit, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied and energized throughout your busy days, without relying on sugar and caffeine.
- My favorite clean eating recipes?? My stir fry stuffed peppers & Greek quinoa salad!
4. Filling up on “diet” foods
While I encourage you to choose grilled protein over fried, choosing “diet” foods is not always the best option. The biggest fake out? 100 calorie packs! Usually packed with chemicals and artificial ingredients, your body is better off consuming 200 calories of hummus, carrots, and whole grain crackers to keep you full from WHOLE FOODS…or this apple-wich! (Has the theme caught on yet???)
5. Taking an all-or-nothing approach
I prefer an 85/15 approach, where I eat whole foods, mostly plants, 85% of the time and splurge on my favorite indulgences the other 15 percent. If you’re getting ready for summer, maybe you’ll tighten this to 90/10, but remember eating is a social activity and a FUN part of life!
(RE-VAMPED RECIPE COMING MONDAY!!!)
One of my best get-ready-for-summer tips? Stock up on bug spray & sunscreen!!!
For more get ready for summer tips and recipes, “like” my Facebook page!
XO