tips for staying in shape this summer
Drink water
Water is absolutely essential to staying healthy and hydrated during the warm summer months. If you work out in the heat, drink plenty of water both before and after your workout to get the most out of your exercise routine and avoid the painful side effects of dehydration. Keep in mind that water is also a natural appetite suppressor and assists the body in metabolizing fat deposits, so the more water you drink the easier it will be to lose weight and keep it off.
Dive in
Don’t just drink water, jump in and swim in it! Water workouts are amazingly beneficial, being both cardiovascular and low impact. Swimming works your whole body, and just 30 minutes a day can improve strength, endurance, posture, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. In addition, swimming and other water sports offer the same benefits as running without many of the negatives like muscle and joint strain. And depending on your objectives, swimming can be as easy or as difficult as you like.
Float on
You don’t actually have to get in the water to get a great workout. Kayaking and canoeing are both great ways to flatten your abs while strengthening and toning your entire upper body. To get the most out of your workout, be sure to balance the exertion. Row on both sides of the boat and reverse your direction every so often to work your muscles evenly.
Hit the beach
All types of exercise are improved at the beach. Not only is it more pleasant to walk or run in the surf than on a treadmill, it’s also easier on your body’s joints. If running’s not your thing, take a Frisbee and a friend and enjoy all the benefits of an aerobic workout while having fun at the same time.
Summer’s the perfect time to make a splash with your workout. By exercising in or near the water, you can stay cool, have fun, and get a great bathing suit body all at the same time. But don’t forget the sunscreen!
Don’t Let Food Names Fool You!
By Amy Ahlberg, Rodale.com
Correct time to drink water…
Correct time to drink water…very important. From a Cardiac Specialist!
Drinking water at a certain time maximizes its effectiveness on the body:
2 glasses of water upon waking up helps activate the internal organs
1 glass of water 30 minutes before a meal helps digestion
1 glass of water before taking a bath helps lower blood pressure and flush out toxins
1 glass of water before going to bed help avoid stroke or heart attack; also helps prevent night time leg cramps. Your muscles are seeking hydration when they cramp so keep hydrating!