Swimsuit season - Confidence is Key

Ready or not, swimsuit season is here!

I was shopping the other day.. and you know what? They seriously need to change the lighting in the dressing rooms! Lights from above... should only come from Heaven. Not dressing room ceilings!

With that said, I worry about the self talk that goes on in these rooms. Listen to me, lose the negative reflection of yourself, and take action. Here are some ways to get started.

1) Please avoid trying to get rid of those stubborn pounds by not eating! That just doesn't work. Attempting to lose weight by starving yourself is not only ineffective, it's also dangerous. It may seem that severe calorie restriction would deliver the quickest weight loss, but your body is complex and by doing so you'll disrupt your metabolism and slow your results. Focus instead, on getting away from sodas and fast food. Replace the junk food in your life with plenty of the following: cooked and raw vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, moderate amounts of seeds and nuts, lean meats and low fat dairy. Clean eating really is that simple. Fuel your body, don't just feed it.

2) I've written about this before, long drawn out cardio sessions and crunches are not enough! We all want our midsection to look toned as we stroll down the beach, but excessive crunches aren't the answer for tight abs. In order to achieve that lean look, you'll have to focus on burning off the layer of fat that is covering them up. How? Sprinting, intense cardio, weight training and a great nutrition plan.

3) Carbs are your friend. They give you the energy you need to make it through the day with a smile! Carbohydrates have been given a bad rap, which is unfortunate because you can (and should) eat carbs while losing weight. The key is to stick with whole grains, oatmeal, sweet potatoes and brown rice while avoiding processed and refined flours and sugars. Taper your carb intake through out the day. Eating five times a day, your first few meals should contain good carbohydrates. By meal 5, stick with fish or lean beef and loads of veggies. If you get hungry in the evening, try having decaf tea, drink water (flavor it!). Chew gum, go for a walk, or have 1/2 an apple with a little peanut butter.

If you are just starting or returning to your fitness journey, remember that confidence is the key to beauty. You might have areas of your body you're not proud of right now. But the cool thing is, we are biological beings. That means we can apply demands to our bodies, and they will respond with changes. Walk tall, with shoulders wide. Use your height, lengthen your spine by stretching the crown of your head toward the ceiling. Keep your belly up and in, that goes right along with the stretch of your spine as you walk. If you radiate confidence, no one will ever second guess you don't love your body and who you are...that's what matters, that's beautiful!

Get fit!

Chani
Flower Mound Personal Trainer
www.chanioverstreet.com