Summer is a season that most people look forward to – it is the time of the year when they spend time with loved ones, relax, and engage in fun activities. However, it is also a season that comes with challenges when it comes to maintaining a fit and healthy body. Summer is a season that is associated with vacations, barbecues, parties, and drinking. While you should enjoy these activities during this time of the year, it is important to think about maintaining good health, so that you don’t suffer during and after the season. Here are seven tips to help you maintain a fit summer body:

1. Eat Right

Eating right is essential if you want to maintain a healthy body, especially during the summer season. Your diet should contain lots of fruits and vegetables. According to The Harvard School of Public Health, you should be eating nine servings of fruits and vegetables per day, equivalent to two cups of fruit and 2.5 cups of vegetables per day. However, this is a minimum estimation, and you should eat as many fruits and vegetables as possible.

In addition to fruits and vegetables, you should focus on eating the right amount of protein, fats, and good carbohydrates. Good carbohydrates include quinoa, brown rice, whole wheat, rye, and barley. Bad carbohydrates are found in refined white bread and processed foods like French fries. A general guideline is to stay away from fast foods which are loaded with Trans fats and added sugars. Substitute hamburgers and hotdogs with turkey burgers and turkey dogs. Try grilling salmon and shrimp instead of bratwursts. Eat grilled vegetables such as zucchini, peppers, and onions or salad on the side as opposed to French fries or potato chips.

2. Eat Light

Eating the right amount is just as essential as eating the right foods. Don’t starve yourself, but try to concentrate on portions. Make an effort not to overeat. When eating, there is a point when you have eaten enough and are satisfied, and then there is that point that many of us go past. This is the point that you should try to avoid.

Try eating smaller meals throughout the day. Eat a large breakfast and smaller portions throughout the day. Eating this way can be beneficial, especially if you are trying to shed a few pounds or get more toned. Remember that just because you are eating smaller meals does not mean you shouldn’t care about what you are eating. Eating right and eating light go hand in hand.

3. Hydrate

Staying hydrated is critical for maintaining good health, especially during the summer months. According to the American Heart Association, staying hydrated is crucial for your heart health. “Keeping the body hydrated helps the heart more easily pump blood through the blood vessels to the muscles. And, it helps the muscles work efficiently.” This is not anything to take for granted. Without enough water, your heart is going to suffer, and if your heart suffers, your body will suffer as well.

The quantity of water you should drink depends on many different variables. A useful way to test if you are drinking enough water is to pay attention to your urine. If the color is light, then you are drinking enough. If it is darker, then you are not drinking enough. Also pay attention to how often you go to the bathroom. You don’t want to drown yourself because that can have negative consequences as well, but you want to ensure your body is properly hydrated.

If you are planning on spending a lot of time outside in the sun, counteract dehydration symptoms with lots of water. This is really important when you plan on drinking alcohol or any other liquids that can lead to dehydration. Always have enough water available during the summer months, no matter what you are doing.

4. Exercise

Humans aren’t meant to be sedentary, so try to get as much exercise as you can. There are so many ways you can exercise effectively, especially during the summer months. Running, walking, swimming, and hiking are all simple forms of exercise that can be done outside in the sunny weather. Unless you have severe health restrictions, there is a form of exercise out there waiting for you.

The summer months are the perfect time to start taking exercise seriously. It can often be difficult to undertake an exercise regimen during the fall and winter months because of the cold and unfavorable weather. Play beach volleyball, go for long walks on the beach, or swim in the lake or the ocean. Exercise doesn’t have to be intense cardio or strength training. Take advantage of the warm weather and treat your body well. It is important to determine what kind of body you want. Are you trying to lose body fat, or do you desire to be more fit and active? Cater your exercise to fit your individual needs.

5. Focus on the Core

The core keeps your body strong and solid. Even though core training is a form of exercise in itself, it deserves its own point of emphasis. Whether you are trying to form a six-pack in your stomach or merely wanting to be stronger, focus on your core when you build your body for the summer. The core keeps your entire body together. If your core is weak, then your whole body is going to suffer. Along with the normal exercise you do throughout the week, add in some extra core work 3-4 times per week. This routine doesn’t need to be extreme. It is important to give your core the extra attention it deserves. Having a strong core is more than just constructing sexy-looking abs. According to the Mayo Clinic, strong core muscles are essential for performing any physical activity. “Weak core muscles leave you susceptible to poor posture, lower back pain, and muscle injuries.” Building a strong core is essential to a healthy body and beneficial for those of all ages.

6. Limit Alcohol

Summer is a season that is associated with drinking – it is the time of the year when people tend to drink more often. While it is nice to sit outside during the summer months and enjoy some adult beverages, it is important to limit how much you drink and pay attention to what you drink. If you are concerned about your body, then you need to limit how much beer you drink. Beer is refreshing in the summer, but it is filled with empty calories, which can be detrimental to your body. Also watch out for liquors like whiskey and rum because they tend to have a lot of added sugars. Light liquors such as gin and vodka are probably your safest bet if you plan on drinking often throughout the summer.

7. Get Rest

Your body needs rest, and you need to provide it with plenty of rest. Don’t stay up late all the time partying. Get enough sleep. At the same time, don’t workout incessantly. Your body needs time to recuperate and strengthen. Take rest as needed. Find a balance between having a good time, exercising, and resting. Your body will thank you.

In conclusion, summer is a time for fun and sun, but it is important to take care of yourself during this season. You can have fun, as well as take care of yourself. If you are able to keep your body fit, healthy, and happy throughout the summer months, you will build the habits to keep it going until the next summer. Eat right, eat light, hydrate, exercise, focus on the core, limit alcohol, and get rest. These tips are easy to follow and can make a big difference in how you feel and how you look. Have fun, stay fit, and enjoy the summer season!