Spring Guide: How to Lose Weight and Tone Up for Summer

How to Lose Weight and Tone Up for Summer? Let’s talk about it.

Summer will be here sooner than you think, making spring the perfect season to focus and begin working toward your dream summer body. And getting ready for summer involves not only shedding a few pounds but also toning your body for a fine and fitter look. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve your summer weight loss and toning goals.

How to Lose Weight and Tone Up for Summer

1. Set Clear Realistic Goals

Define Your Objectives: Decide how much weight you want to lose and which areas you want to tone. For example, I want to lose about 30 pounds by summer, lose my fat stomach, and tone my whole body.
Track Progress: Keeping a journal or using an app to log changes in weight and measurements can help you stay motivated. I use the Wyze Scale to track my progress and write down my measures monthly. I created a Gym Girl Essential Checklist HERE on my LTK. And I have 2 other posts on the blog that can help with your weight loss goals. Transform Your Life with the 75 Hard Challenge & Transform Your Body: Calorie Deficit Workout and Meal Plan to Lose 30 Pounds.

2. Create a Balanced Diet Plan

Eat Whole Foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. I have veggies with every meal. I have fruits as snacks. I prioritize protein and fiber. I eat at least 100g of protein per day.
Control Portions: Watch your portion sizes to avoid overeating. I measure everything. I use measuring cups, I read labels for exact servings.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day; it helps with metabolism and can curb your appetite. I use this water bottle from Amazon that helps me drink a gallon of water per day.

Spring Guide: How to Lose Weight & Tone Up for Summer

Before we even get into exercise, you need some Cute Workout Clothes. Shop my favorites on LTK, HERE.

3. Incorporate Regular Exercise

Cardio Workouts: Engage in activities like walking, running, cycling, or swimming for at least 150 minutes each week. I do cardio 5x a week. I walk and get on the treadmill and StairMaster at the gym Monday-Friday.
Strength Training: Aim to include muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week. This can be done with weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises such as push-ups and squats. I strength train 4 times a week Monday-Thursday. And I use the machines, free weights, dumbbells and kettlebells at the gym.
Flexibility and Balance: It’s extremely important to include yoga or stretching to enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. I don’t work out on Saturdays & Sundays they are my rest days but I do a lot of stretching over the weekend. I also stretch every morning and stretch before and after my workouts in the evening.

To make your fitness journey as successful as possible I also created a Gym Girl Essentials post for you of EVERYTHING you need to go to the gym and jumpstart your fitness journey. Check it our HERE on my LTK.

4. Stay Consistent

Daily Routine: Consistency is key. Make exercise a part of your daily routine. Schedule workouts just like any other appointment. Especially if you are a mom, a working mom or a super busy person. I am a content creator and a stay-at-home mom so everyone in my house knows I workout Monday-Friday anytime between 2-5 pm. And days I know I won’t be able to make it to the gym in the evening I wake up super early and go to the gym before my husband go to work. So when picking a trainer, gym or fitness class pick somewhere flexible hours.
Meal Prep: Planning meals in advance can prevent unhealthy eating habits. Meal prepping is a lifesaver. Try planning your meals for at least the first 3 days of the week. I always try to plan meals for the week and freestyle on weekends.

5. Get Plenty of Sleep

Aim for 7-9 Hours: Lack of sleep can interfere with weight loss and reduce your motivation to exercise. Now, I’m still working on getting more sleep but I try my best to give myself a bedtime and try to stick to it.

6. Find Support

Workout Buddy: Partner with a friend for workouts to increase accountability and motivation.
Join Classes: Participating in fitness classes can enhance your experience and introduce you to new workout methods.

7. Stay Positive

Focus on Benefits: Remind yourself of the health benefits of your lifestyle changes rather than just the numbers on the scale. Take pictures and enjoy the journey.
Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. I actually share my updates and progress on my Instagram every week.

Conclusion

Achieving your weight loss and toning goals requires dedication and a holistic approach. By setting clear and realistic goals, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and ensuring a support system, you can confidently prepare for summer and enjoy the journey to a healthier you!