5 Health Tips For A Confident Spring Break Vacation
by Becky Stifter
March marks the month of Spring Break season, which means swimsuit season is also among us. Crash diets and depriving yourself in the name of fast results is not the answer. Think of it this way, the goal is to feel confident in a swimsuit all summer long, not just for one week. Take these five simple steps to feel better, look better, and do better for your body this Spring.
1. Eat more greens
Studies show that people who eat more greens have healthier waistlines and often shed pounds quicker. The Harvard School of Public Health states, “The latest dietary guidelines call for five to thirteen servings of fruits and vegetables a day (2½ to 6½ cups per day), depending on one’s caloric intake.” Spinach and other leafy greens have a 2:1 ratio, 2 cups of leafy greens equals 1 cup of normal vegetables. Aim to eat at least 2 cups of vegetables per meal and you will achieve the 6-cup target with ease. Use this measurement trick: cup your hands with your two pinky fingers touching and that equals 1 cup.
2. Set daily goals
Short term goals can help you achieve long term success. Set daily, reasonable goals. Not only will you feel like a champion at the day’s end, but you will boost your health at the same time. Double whammy! Daily goals can include: only drink one cup of coffee, go for a run or take a yoga class, eat an organic lunch, or give yourself a compliment when you look in the mirror. Exercising and eating healthier is easier when you have a goal in mind, the angel on your shoulder motivating you to do better everyday!
3. Exercise 3-5 times per week
In lieu of setting goals, make this one a priority. American College of Sports Medicine recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intense exercise per week. That number may seem daunting, but a brisk walk to class, taking the stairs instead of the escalator, and parking a little bit further from the store entrance, adds up. Schedule your works just like you would a coffee date or study time; find gaps in your schedule, be it the morning, afternoon, or evening, and commit to working out for at least 30 minutes, 3-5 times per week. Find free online workouts from Pop Sugar Fitness and the Runtastic Fitness Channel.
4. Get your roommate in on the health kick
Challenge your roommate, mom, or best friend to some healthy fun. Ask her to join you for a workout each week, commit to eating more vegetables, and hold each other accountable! It’s much easier to stay motivated to workout when you have someone waiting for you.
5. Find a swimsuit that brings out the Beyonce in you
Bikini, Tankini, Onesie…find the style that makes you feel like Beyonce. Regardless of if you’re going to Cabo, Miami, or home for Spring Break, find that swimsuit which fits your style and makes you radiate with confidence. The famous Vince Lombardi said, “Confidence is contagious.” Look good, feel good, do good.
Happy Spring Breaking! And, stay tuned for my extra BONUS booty workout here next week!
About Becky:
Becky has a passion for fitness and healthy living, and is excited to share it with the world. She is a student at the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in Media Studies with plans to pursue a career in Sports. Growing up as a cheerleader and gymnast, Becky’s not afraid to be upside-down, have fun, and crank up the music. Becky is AFAA certified, teaches Group Exercise at UC Berkeley, and loves running, working out with friends, yoga, hiking, coffee dates, and spending time outdoors.
@goldenbearbecky
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