You will always have confidence in your itty-bitty bikini if you can master this tip. Stop comparing your body to the girl who is stands at five feet and barely weighs 100 pounds, or the girl in the gym trying her hardest to lose some weight. Then do yourself a favor and get off of the “fit” Twitter accounts that are obsessed with the “thigh gap.” Stop trying to be as skinny as a Victoria’s Secret model. Everyone has different bodies; it’s time to accept that!
2. Set realistic goals
Working out three weeks before break, and expecting to look like a body builder is impossible. So, try setting goals you know you will be able to accomplish, such as running a mile under eight minutes, biking four miles in 20 minutes, or dominating the squat challenge. You’ll be more enthusiastic about working out as you cross off these accomplished goals, and these goals will be easier and more realistic to achieve, rather than losing 20 lbs. in two weeks.
3. Fast feet, not fast food
Taco Bell, McDonald’s, Jimmy Johns, Qdoba, and even Applebee’s half-off appetizers have food that is drenched in calories, grease, and fat. If you really feel like you can’t survive without that Crunchwrap Supreme, run that extra mile or bike for an extra 10 minutes. Cutting fast food out, “cold turkey,” is hard, but if you are going to eat it, at least make your body earn it.
4. Cut the empty calories
Sodas, and even juices, are full of sodium and sugars that are just adding onto your daily calorie intake. Water is a great zero-calorie, thirst-quenching drink that you’re supposed to drink eight times a day. If it gets too bland for your taste buds, try adding some lemon, lime, or orange slices for a refreshing new flavor.
5. Switch to light alcohol
A 12 oz. can of Bud Light has around 110 calories, multiply that by the nine beers you drank in a night, and you’re already at almost 1000 calories. This equation goes for any type of alcohol. A bottle of Barefoot Moscato has around 600 calories, and even one shot of Burnett’s vodka is around 75-100 calories. Try switching to light alcohol, and save some calories for when you get hungry around 2 AM.
6. Keep the romance alive
Remember sex can burn around 200 calories in a half hour, maybe even more depending on how experimental you are! Even just making out with that cutie from psych 100 can burn around 250 calories an hour.
7. Make it a group fitness date
Going to the gym alone can be a scary experience, especially if you’re just starting a new workout routine. Bring a new friend, drag your roommates, or make it a date! Going with someone you know will help make the gym experience seem fun, and it will definitely help you keep focus so that you stay motivated.
8. Spice up your workout
Doing the same routine becomes repetitive, boring, and eventually your body will become used to it. Try looking on Pinterest for new workouts to target areas like your butt, abs, or arms. Start training for a half-marathon or a 5K run to add in some variety, and push your body in a new way. Another way to trick your body into working out could involve yoga, zumba, or cycling class. Switching up your routine will help you push your body, and it will help you stay motivated and enthusiastic about getting fit.
9. Stay motivated
Even if you’re only getting in shape for spring break, don’t fall back into old habits when you return after the seven days on the beach. Stay motivated to get healthy, after all, summer break is only eight weeks away!