5 Ways To Get You Bathing Suit Ready

This is your year! No more hiding behind a enormous beach towel, wearing your baggy t-shirt or borrowing your mom's swimsuit cover-up!

1. Get your mind ready - Believe in yourself and have a positive mindset before you engage in any exercise or weight-loss program. Getting a sleep, toned body is more than just exercising. It is making a commitment to yourself and being your own motivator while pushing forward. Start by changing how you think, from I can't to I can. Think baby steps and set small daily or weekly goals that are attainable. Trying to accomplish too much too fast will only set you up for failure. Tell yourself that everyday you are moving one step closer to accomplishing your healthy/fitness goals, and you WILL do it.

2. Cardio, Cardio, Cardio - I know you are probably reaching out to slap me right now, but as much as you don't want to hear it, it is true. You have to get your heart rate up and sweat if you want to burn fat! If you are able to carry on a conversation while doing a cardio exercise, then you are not working hard enough. Plan to do cardio activity such as running, jogging, kickboxing for 30-60 minutes 3-5 times a week. Even walking for 30 minutes a day will improve your health and help build your endurance.

3. Eat Lean to Be Lean - Eating a healthy diet will not only give you a great physique, but you will also feel better and gain more energy to keep up with your workouts. Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring. You can find great recipes to help spice up your meals. Eat foods high in fiber, whole grains, lean meats, fresh fruits and veggies.

4. Weights are Your Friend - With men, this part is easy but so many women are afraid to lift weights in fear of bulking up. It's very difficult for a woman to bulk up with simple weight lifting exercises. Weights are good for you. Weight training will help to shape your body, speed up your metabolism, tone up and develop stronger bones needed to fight osteoporosis. Aim to do 45-60 minutes of 2-3 times per week.

5. Get Organized - Getting yourself organizes and clutter free will help you feel better, less stressed and more open to accept new things. It may seem like one has nothing to do with the other, but cleaning out a drawer, closet or just getting your home/office organized can lead to a healthier lifestyle. In order to be organized with your workouts, you need to be organized in your life. So go ahead,, clean out a drawer today and see how much better you feel!

Find healthy recipes at All Recipes or American Diabetes Association recipes.