Suns Out, Guns Out!

Ahhh, finally the entire country is experiencing consistently warmer weather again. This means convertibles come out of the garage in the northeast, boats are launched in the midwest, snow melts in the mountains, and rain turns to 'shine in the northwest.

View our site by clicking HERE.

This part of the year is also the official kickoff of "I'm getting into shape this summer" time. Health clubs and the media may run their ads and stories during New Year's resolutions, but I've always believed that now is a better time to influence people to get in shape, instead of January. People need to be motivated to regularly follow a fitness plan. And, there ain't no better motivation than thinking about wearing that swimsuit in front of your friends and relatives in the next month or two. Sure, we may have the same thoughts during the winter. But, June and July are figuratively soooo far away from the first few weeks of the year.

Most of you who already look good in a swimsuit may look to the summer race calendar as a motivator. The warmer temps and longer days certainly help ease the workout burden.

No matter what it takes to motivate you to get in shape (or better shape) this summer, follow these fitness guidelines to maximize your results:

1) Ease into it - Don't make the mistake of many and start too heavy or too fast, too soon. Especially if your body hasn't been consistently worked since Labor Day, easing into a fitness plan is the way to start. Whatever you think you can lift, run, ride, swim, etc.--cut it in half the first week. That's right! 6-7 days at 50% is better than 1 day of 100% and 3 days of nothing immediately thereafter because you can't get away from the ice and ibuprofen.

2) Buy new shoes and gear - Don't even dare drag out those worn running shoes, leaky goggles and smelly workout shirts/shorts. New duds will help you look better, feel better and prevent injuries. If you need/want running shoe buying tips, be sure to check out the advice of The Queen of Kona (multiple Hawaii Ironman Champion), Paula Newby Fraser.

3) Establish attainable goals - If you've never done a triathlon before, don't think that qualifying for Ironman Hawaii is a realistic goal. You're setting yourself up for disappointment if your objectives are too lofty. Too easy and you'll wish that you strived for higher. Consider the possibilities, review the amount of free time in your schedule and work for something that will make you proud of yourself this summer.

4) Find a partner in grime - Try to find a friend, relative, colleague or neighbor who can share the experience with you. Knowing that someone is expecting you to show up will help you roll out of bed for those early morning workouts. Plus, having a partner to chat with during your sweat will make the time fly by.

5) Treat yourself along the way - Had a good week of exercising? Reward your body and mind with a 60-minute massage. Halfway to your weight-loss goal? Pat yourself on the back with a scoop of ice cream (one, not three) or a margarita (one, not three) or a favorite meal (one, not three) and then resume your newfound healthy lifestyle the following day.

Happy sweating!