Get Fit the Healthy Way

With summer around the corner, it’s natural for us to think about the warmer weather. The snow is beginning to recede, the temperatures are starting to rise, and we are almost ready to put away our winter clothing. Summer calls for a change in wardrobe and of course, showing off a summer-ready body. Between running a family and avoiding the cold during winter, we often put fitness on the back burner of our priorities. That doesn't mean that we have to keep it there. Keep reading for a handful of tips on getting fit in time for summer. Address your diet as a family. While your husband and kids may have their own favorite foods, sometimes it is best to push them in a healthier direction. Vocalizing healthier alternatives is a great way to get into the mindset of losing weight while staying healthy. Making changes all at once is difficult, especially without a prior discussion, so make sure everyone at home is on board. Open up the discussion on food likes and dislikes and begin to build a menu that everyone can enjoy. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables and add in chicken and lean meats for your protein. A great diet can go a long way towards invigorating the mind, body, and soul. Track your progress. When your spouse is at work and the kids are at school, you have time to monitor your progress. One of the easiest routes to getting fit involves tracking where you've come from. You don't realize how much better you are looking every day because you are conscious of the process. So start a website or an online weight loss blog. Write posts that detail your latest workout plans or diet changes. Take before and after pictures and don't be afraid to wax philosophical on why staying fit is important. Understanding why your diet change is so important will keep you focused on continuing the process. Start working out. Most people subconsciously believe that they will fail before they even try working out. They could feel this way for a myriad of reasons. Some people are self-conscious and don't want to be seen by other people in the gym. Others don't believe that they can get stronger or slimmer. One of the most inspiring losing weight tips I've ever read was this: Nobody should care about your fitness more than you. You don't need to go to the gym on base. You don't even need to go to a gym at all. But what you do need to do is to believe in yourself. Start walking around the neighborhood. Do push ups and sit ups in your living room. Explore different workout programs that you can do at home. Get your husband and children involved. Share your success. An underrated part of getting fit involves motivating others. Many people are nervous to talk about their big life changes. Don't be one of those people! Talk to your friends and family about your fitness goals. Get them involved. The more that people know about your goals, the more they can be there to help you when you struggle. At the very least, you may end up inspiring them. Having a network of support is almost imperative when it comes to getting fit.