By: StacyAtZeel
pool-flickr-citeJuly 4 th doesn't have to be about food and booze-but let's face it, most of the time, that's what these summer soirees often center on. Zeel Expert Lynda Lippin doesn't suggest shunning the goods; rather, she offers five key pieces of advice for celebrating healthfully without denying yourself fulfillment or fun. If you're heading to a barbeque for July 4 th this week, be sure to remember these suggestions.
Plan your morning workout. Exercise the morning before the celebrations begin. Do whatever you can handle at as high an intensity as you can manage. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) for 10 minutes followed by 20 minutes of some full body exercise (Kettlebells, TRX, Pilates and active yoga are good options) is a great place to start.
Mind your water intake. During barbecues, parties and other food and drink-filled events, be sure to alternate what you sip, drinking a glass of water for every alcoholic beverage. This will keep you fuller and better hydrated, and you will end up drinking less high-sugar alcohol because of it.
Grill etiquette 101. Satisfy your appetite by filling up on less processed foods. Try to stick to leaner protein-chicken and white fish such as tilapia and grouper, or tofu and veggie burgers are the best-and lots of vegetables. Avoid high-sugar desserts, breads, chips and white potatoes as much as possible by filling up on other foods.
The morning after drill. Just because the festivities are over doesn't mean your fitness plans go out the window too. Be sure to work out the following morning! Seriously, some sweat and movement will not only help you burn more calories on the 4th, it will also help you feel better if you are hungover on the 5 th !
Book a trainer or class in advance. Hold yourself accountable. If you know you won't exercise on your own, book that class or private Pilates session in advance so you will have no excuse to skip out on your health. Then, toss any unhealthy leftovers from the party, and get back on your summer plan for a svelte, smokin' hot you!
