Whether you are wanting to tone up, lose a significant amount of weight or maybe just clean up your fitness routine, spring is the perfect time to start or restart your fitness journey.  As the weather warms up in Australia, a lot of us are motivated to get in shape for summer. These are some of our top tips to get you moving in the right direction. If this is new to you, simply incorporate one or two of these tips at a time until you get into the groove of things.

Find a mate

Having a workout buddy is a great way to add some fun to your exercise routine and it is also super motivating. You can also try a group class such a pilates, yoga or circuit training to keep things interesting and fun.  

Nutrition

No matter how consistent you are with your exercise routine, if you don’t eat clean and overindulge in unhealthy foods then you will surely not see much progress. Try eliminating unhealthy snacks and processed foods. Instead, ramp up your protein intake and minimise carbohydrates.  

Plan ahead and set some goals

We’ve all heard the saying ‘Failing to plan is preparing to fail’- this couldn’t be more appropriate to fitness and physical health. Setting goals, and celebrating milestones when you hit them will keep you focused on the long term progress and you’ll get a confidence boost as you accomplish your goals. The key is constantly reflecting and reassessing your goals as you progress.  

Get lifting

Unlike any other physical activity, with strength training, you will burn calories both during and also after as you continue to burn more calories throughout the day.  Strength training boosts metabolism so and increases muscle mass, both which result in fat burning.  

HITT

High-intensity interval training is a form of interval training that uses short bursts of intense exercise that usually lasts around thirty minutes. HITT has been proven to reduce overall fat mass and is great way to maximise a short workout.  

Track your progress

Keeping a journal to track your exercise and nutrition can help you remain accountable, and it is an effective way to know exactly how well your efforts are helping you reach your goals.  

Outdoor Workouts

Working out in nature is a great way to switch things up and enjoy the outdoors. As temperatures become warmer, any physical activity is more enjoyable in nature. Not only do you get to have a killer workout, but also enjoy the outdoors and clear your head. Try to go for a hike, a jog or even a HITT workout while you're at the beach.  

Hire a PT

If you have the means to hire a PT, you should definitely do so. Not only do you get the benefit of a one on one session which will help you with a personalised exercise program that is tailored to your needs, but you also benefit from having someone motivate and guide you through challenging moves.