5 Steps for a Total-Body Summer Shape-Up

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Whole Living
Whole Living

top shape with moves that will sculpt, strengthen, and show off your curves -- not to mention boost your metabolism and your confidence. Follow these steps to make the most of your summer strength-training routine.

Plus:Slim-Down Summer Recipes

1. Cardio
Before you unveil your bikini body at the beach, get it in top shape with moves that will sculpt, strengthen, and show off your curves -- not to mention boost your metabolism and your confidence. Follow these steps to make the most of your summer strength-training routine.

2. Choose Your Moves
Include 3 to 4 days of strength-training in your workout regimen as well: Use our targeted workouts for core, arms, legs, back, and bones to strengthen and tone your trouble spots, or mix and match moves to get a full-body tune-up.

Plus:8 Bone-Strengthening Moves

3. Strengthen Your Heart
On days you don't do cardio, pair your strength-training with a 30-minute routine designed to improve blood flow and heart health. Gentle poses that stretch and compress the rib cage and torso can give you some of the same benefits as high-intensity exercise -- without high-intensity exertion and sweating.

4. Fuel Your Body
Don't go into a workout thirsty. You don't need to drink after each set, but keep a water bottle on hand in case you start to feel parched. Consider eating a small post-workout snack that pairs protein and carbs, too, such as whole-grain toast with peanut or almond butter. It can help your muscles recover by nourishing damaged tissue (skip it, though, if you're trying to lose weight).

Plus:17 Healthy Mini Meals for All-Day Energy

5. Make a Plan
You don't have to stick with the same routine every week -- in fact, you can stave off boredom by switching it up and trying new activities. But setting a general workout schedule can help you stick with your goals and remind you to make exercise a part of your day, every day.

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