It's summer; a fun time of year to spend time with friends and enjoy food and company. Also a great time for swimming...But especially for hours sprawled out on my bed watching TV and reading under the ceiling fan, trying desperately to keep cool in the Arizona heat.
How I wish that I could get the initiative to get up at 5:30 a.m. and go for an hour-long jog. But alas --sleeping in after late nights of web surfing takes the lead!
Though I achieved my weight-loss goals some time ago, healthy living is still sometimes I strive for. But, often, I fall.
Fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy proteins are a very important part of my diet...But they accompany carbs. Oh yes, lots of carbs.
I like burgers with my salads. . . And I like fruit with my pizza. . . That's balanced enough, right?
However, from time to time, the temptations burgers and pizza begin to overcome the fruits and veggies. Soon, Netflix and Tumblr creep above exercise on the priority list. Though my metabolism appears to be such as I don't gain weight from this conduct too quickly, I can feel it gradually slowing. I can just sense that the fat stores are preparing to grow!
Once again, it comes time for a self-evaluation of my habits.
The key here, I've found, is establishing goals. The more intense the goal, the more drive I will have to meet it. Trying to meet my goals will result in good habits, and thus, a goal must be established.
Although I will never be able to give up laziness and fast food entirely (simply because I am a wimp who likes her fries) these are my personal observations and goals for the summer that I would like to share with you.
For times out with friends
Allow myself to enjoy food and good times. In my eyes, a movie night with candy and friends is worth so much more than devoting that time to a tiny waistline. However, after a day (or two...or sometimes three) of eating out, it's not a bad idea to take a "cleansing day" (...or two...or three...)
A "cleansing day" for me usually consists of eating relatively healthy, and doing a moderate amount of exercise several times throughout the day. Following up a few "bad" days with a cleanse day really gives the body more energy, and makes you feel a lot better both physically and mentally.
Exercise During Hot Weather
During hot weather or sluggish days, it's just too dang hot to suck it up and take a run before the sun sets. Instead, I try taking brisk walks, swimming, indoor strength training, and indoor cardio can compensate during the summer months for weight and fitness maintenance. Of course, I try to accompany these methods with the occasional jog.
Personal Goals
- Be able to do 25 pushups by the end of the summer
- Complete 3 weeks of "6 Week 6 Pack" program (level 1)
- Go 3+ days without junk food
- Jog for 40 minutes straight at least once
By setting simple plans and little goals, they keep you motivated to continue a balanced, healthy lifestyle even in the dog days of Summer.
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