Women's Health
Sizzle In Your Swimsuit This Summer
By
May 17, 2008 - 9:55:21 AM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - You don't have to suffer the summer doldrums this year. There's still plenty of time to start a routine to shape up for the season so you'll be sizzling with self-confidence at your neighbor's pool party or just soaking up the rays, in moderation, in the privacy of your own yard. Using these small steps can add up to big results in six weeks or less.


1) Review your exercise routine (or start one). Exercise is typically described as mild, moderate or strenuous, depending on the rate at which you're working and the type of exercise in which you're engaged. Just a few months ago, the American College of Sport Medicine (ACSM) and the American Heart Association (AHA) released revised exercise recommendations for people 18-65 years of age. The new guidelines recommend 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as walking, or 20 minutes of vigorous activity, such as playing tennis, three days a week. They also recommend eight to 10 muscle-strengthening activities twice a week, but not two days in a row. When you start slow with five minutes a day and work your way up, it's easy and enjoyable. And, now that the summer is starting you'll be able to enjoy these activities outdoors.

2) Freshen up your workout wardrobe. I've found that when I'm wearing an adorable workout outfit that makes me feel pretty, I am more motivated to exercise and I enjoy it more. You don't have to spend a fortune on clothes to work out in and you don't have to have a different outfit for every, single day. With more and more people getting active, stores are carrying a wider selection of gym clothes and active wear so it's easier than ever to put on your cutest outfit and get moving.

3) Get the right shoes. Different exercises require different types of shoes. When you're shopping for fitness shoes, ask the sales person which shoes are recommended for which type of exercise. Experts recommend shopping for your workout shoes at the end of the day when your feet may be slightly swollen and try them on with the socks you intend to wear while exercising. Try on both shoes and walk around the store for a few minutes on a hard surface. It's also recommended that you replace your workout shoes every 300 - 600 miles.

4) Try this simple eating plan: super-size your veggies and half-size everything else! I had a friend in high school, Frederica, who lost 50 pounds over the summer break. I asked her how she did it and she told me, "I just ate half of everything I wanted. If I wanted a sandwich, I ate half a sandwich. If I wanted a candy bar, I ate half a candy bar." I added "super-size your veggies" to ensure that you get your important nutrients.

5) Try self-tanner. A quick and easy way to look thinner instantly and get a jump-start on your summer glow is to use self-tanner. I like the self-tanner towelettes, which are available at drugstores and department stores. The towelettes provide just the right amount of product, so you don't have to guess how much to spray on and you can achieve a nice, even result. Remember to go lighter on the areas where your skin is thick, such as elbows and backs of your knees - they'll come out darker. Also, wash your hands thoroughly immediately after using the self-tanner so your palms don't become stained.

Using these tips for the next few weeks can make a visible difference in the way you look and feel. Won't you join me in Aging Backwards?

Jackie Silver Bio:
Jackie Silver is Aging Backwards and she’s sharing her tips, tricks, secrets and shortcuts for stopping the effects of aging on her Web site, http://agingbackwards.com/, in her forthcoming book, on TV, on radio and in print. As a television correspondent on the syndicated show, Daytime, she's been called the Aging Backwards "Guru" and Aging Backwards "Expert."

Jackie Silver, Aging Backwards
http://agingbackwards.com/
jackie@agingbackwards.com

www.HealthNewsDigest.com

© Copyright by HealthNewsDigest.com