You've got this.
*Originally published on October 9, 2019:
It's that time of year—we want to work on our summer bodies! The weather is beginning to get warmer, so now is the time to take advantage of the fact that you can go outside and get motivated again! Check out this compiled list of workouts we've gathered for you!
Dancing
Whether you prefer line dancing or jazz, hip-hop, or Zumba, there are tons of dance workouts out there that are just plain fun and enjoyable. The big bonus of dance is that you don't necessarily feel like you're working out—except when you're dancing hard!
I recommend checking out The Fitness Marshall (YouTube and website). He makes eccentric dance videos, motivates people, makes them laugh, and most of all, has fun—he is not afraid to be himself!
Lifting Weights
Whether you are lifting major weights (bruh!) or just simply toning with smaller ones, you are making an impact. Muscles burn fat—plain and simple. The more muscle you have, the more fat you burn.
Lifting weights is a recommended and effective way to get ready for your summer body. Just make sure to balance your carbs, fats, vegetables, and sweets—and most of all, hydrate. Lifting weights is no joke, but it is an effective way to concentrate on different areas of your body, like your chest, abs, back, arms, and legs! We love this exercise because you can eat almost anything you want without guilt!
Walking
This is a great way to get your steps in, lose or maintain a healthy weight, and improve your overall attitude! People who go for a walk every day, or every other day, are happier and healthier. Walking helps you to strengthen your muscles, and you begin to walk a little more confidently. The more often you do it, the farther you can do it and the faster you become—plus, you can work up a really great sweat! Ever wonder why you leave the mall hot and sweaty? Check out this extended list of reasons why walking is great for you!
(Side note: I did Weight Watchers while only taking a 45-minute-to-one-hour walk per day, and I lost 50 pounds in eight months—walking works!!)
Videos/Subscriptions
There are a ton of options out there to choose from! Popular subscriptions include Beachbody and Daily Burn. Each subscription allows you to concentrate on a certain type of workout, so be sure to check them out to see what is right for you.
I recommend Daily Burn because it includes an endless amount of workouts (from yoga to dance)! They offer live-streamed and pre-recorded workouts so you can mix it up every day, right at home!
Classes
Similar to the videos and subscriptions, workout classes can be motivating, resourceful, and very effective. Rather than working out in your home alone, the workout classes get you out of the house and around other people. Popular classes include spin class, Pilates, yoga, CrossFit, and of course, dance—plenty to choose from.
For example, CrossFit might be a harder workout than, say, a dance class just because it involves lifting tires, weights, and other intense activities. CrossFit is great for people who like to go ham with their workouts, build a lot of muscle, and really test themselves. Be sure to try new things and see what is right for you!
You can join workout classes at a gym, rec center, or workout studio.
