Summer is fast approaching, and for many people that
means trying to find a way to feel comfortable in a swimsuit. Even though every body is a bikini body, for many of us there are a few things we like to do to help us feel more confident about rocking that swimsuit. There are some drool-worthy and budget-friendly swimsuits available this season so it makes sense to spend some time getting your body ready to show off.
The last thing you want to do before swimsuit season is a crash diets or overtraining. It can be very harmful to the body.
They can lead to long-term and serious health issues. However, there are plenty of healthy life changes you
can start to make now that can increase your swimsuit confidence. Not all of
them are diet and exercise related, either. Check out these six tips to work on
as you start perusing your favorite online swimwear shops.
1.
Keep your
body moisturized. Have you ever noticed how those swimsuit models seem to glisten? Even bodybuilders slather themselves
in oil. You don’t have to go to that extreme, but make sure you keep your skin moisturized! The good news is that many
high-quality sunscreens (an absolute must) also double as great moisturizers.
Skin that is hydrated, both from the inside and outside, simply looks younger
and healthier. Moisturized skin also helps catch the light and shows off the
muscles you’ve been working on. It also helps to prevent wrinkles!
2.
Use a
bronzer, spray tan, and/or highlighter. Models, bodybuilders, and influencers who aren’t
naturally blessed with golden skin often use bronzers
and spray tanners. This helps to show off tone and hide imperfections like dimples, spider veins, cellulite, and more. People of all skin
tones also use highlighters applied in key areas to draw attention to certain areas. If
you use a highlighter for your face, you can often use the same one on your
body. Apply it where the light would naturally shine on your body to instantly
look more toned.
3.
Ditch the
alcohol. You don’t have to completely abstain if you
normally enjoy a social drink or two. However, keep in mind that alcohol is
full of empty calories. Many
types of alcohol can also lead to bloating and indulging too often will lead to extra weight gain. One of the best ways to look better
no matter what you’re wearing is to drink responsibly. When the weather is warm and you are having fun, it can be easy to overindulge. Just make sure it never becomes a habit! Addiction is a serious issue and if there is anyone you know who needs to get rehab for alcohol abuse help them start the warmer months on the right note!
4.
Start a
strength training regimen that you can stick with. Overtraining
when weight lifting or strength training is very easy to do. Ideally, most people should engage in
some type of strength training every other day to allow the muscles time to
recover and hypertrophy (grow). Try to consume at least 20 grams of
protein immediately after a strength session. Everyone can benefit from this
type of training, since we begin to lose muscle due to sarcopenia, or
age-related muscle loss, as early as our late 20s. Muscles not only feel and look good,
but they help keep you safe throughout your life.
5.
Get enough
sleep. Lack of sleep can put a huge dent in anyone’s life and attitude. You already know you look and feel your best when you get the right amount of sleep
for you. Sleep hygiene can help maximize your sleep, and includes using
unique practices that help you get the most of your shut-eye. This can include
removing technology from the bedroom, establishing a pre-bed ritual such as a
warm bath, and avoiding looking at a screen at least two hours before bedtime.
6.
Enjoy
between 150 – 250 minutes of
cardio per week. The minimum amount of recommended cardio for every person
is 150 minutes per week, or five 30-minute sessions per week. You don’t have to
go all-out with every cardio session, but you should achieve a heart rate
that’s in keeping with your goals. For many people, this is an aerobic heart
rate (it varies based on your age
and gender) that helps to reduce fat. Some people get more cardio per week
if they are training for a specific event, are on a sports team, or have
another goal in mind. However, the “best” cardio will depend on you and your
goals. Working with a personal trainer is a great way to make sure you’re doing
the right kind of cardio for you. Even if you don’t have time for that much cardio, start with one workout a week and build up slowly. Every little bit counts!
Looking
your best isn’t just about weight loss and bulking up muscles! It’s about feeling your best and being confident in yourself!