Feel great this summer

4 ways to nurture your best summer body

Posted May 24th, 2022

Holidays are on the horizon, the weather’s warming up and we’re ditching the winter layers. Whilst summer’s arrival is exciting, it often brings feelings of dread and panic as we’re urged to achieve the ‘perfect’ summer body.

However, it’s evident the tide is turning, with influencers promoting the value of body confidence and wellbeing over body perfection. This blog explores how you can nurture your best summer body – one that is healthily built on confidence and fitness. 

  • #1 Accept, respect and thank yourself

83% of Good Housekeeping readers surveyed said they feel more self-conscious during summer[1]. Rather than wishing to be slimmer, bulkier or a totally different shape, try to change what is possible and accept what is not. Losing, maintaining or gaining weight to reach a healthy target is possible with the right programme, nutrition and commitment. Our personal trainers can advise you how to increase lean muscle mass (tone up) realistically and safely, reduce your waistline, improve cardio fitness or build definition in a particular area. There are plenty of engaging workouts including weight training, resistance training, boxing and plyometrics. Remember it takes at least six weeks to see a physical difference through exercise (although the mental benefits can be immediate), so start now before summer is upon us. After every workout or class, thank your body for what it’s done and feel good that you have challenged or nurtured yourself. Strive to be the best version of you – that is more than enough!

  • #2 Focus on mental as well as physical health

The notion of an ideal summer body often focuses solely on physical gains, but the mental benefits of fitness help you embrace and enjoy summer! Whether you’re doing intensive HIIT, controlled Pilates, or feeling free in Zumba, moving releases endorphins, clears your head and improves sleep/energy levels. It’s also a real confidence boost knowing you’ve strengthened and nurtured your body, instead of feeling sluggish or pent-up. Holistic classes encourage mindfulness and reflection which contributes to feeling positive about the present moment and future. This summer, make an affirmation that you’ll invest in your overall health and feel good for it.

  • #3 Fitness is for life, not just summer!

Striving for a ‘bikini body’ or highly defined muscles as a short-term fix does not equate to a strong, flexible and balanced body and mind in the longer term. But by focusing on sustained health and happiness you’ll be able to enjoy feeling active and ‘on form’ all year round. From paddle boarding to holiday hikes, boost your confidence to get stuck in and enjoy adventure.

  • #4 Surround yourself with body positivity and diversity

When you attend group exercise, the pool or gym, it’s clear that everyone is different, and this should be celebrated. There is no one-size-fits-all definition of a healthy body and comparisons often lead to negative emotions. Build on your strengths and be realistic about how much you are trying to alter or improve. Your body is truly amazing and works 24/7 – try to learn to love it and feel grateful for what you can achieve.

In our opinion, there is nothing more attractive than confidence and gratitude, and no better investment than your wellbeing. If you would like to discover a revitalising fitness programme or nutritional advice as we head into summer, please get in touch.