Summer is just around the corner and if you live in a hot state it may have felt like summer for quite some time. There’s nothing like a summer vacation that motivates many to start getting their physical fitness in check. Myself, included. You can only make so many “I just don’t have time to workout.” excuses before your friends start judging you. It’ll be a challenge but I am so up to trying the follow workouts to see if I can get in a decent shape before swimsuit weather. Oh! And to top it off I’ve got 3 weddings to attend this season. Of course I have no intentions of looking better than the bride but I definitely want to be runner-up. Check out some of our favorite workouts that will get you ready for summer.

Planks – Before I really got into planking I thought it was a joke. How can lifting yourself up be a workout. It looked so simple. And then I planked for the first time. And almost died. Planking isn’t easy and even those who done it for years can attest to this. Holding a plank for several minutes takes a whole ‘lotta strength. The good news? Planking can help strengthen your core and it’s a great workout for your legs, arms and stomach muscles. Planking is really an all over workout and I find it the perfect end to a workout routine.

Sprints – Okay, so you aren’t much of a runner. That’s okay. You don’t exactly have to be Usain Bolt to benefit from quick bursts of speed. If your legs and endurance allow for it, try running for 1 minute and then walking for 2 minutes. Do this several times and then bump up your time. Sprinting can be more effective than running for miles at a time and we find that sprints are easier to begin and maintain.

Weight lifting – I’m talking to you, ladies! Weight lifting isn’t just for the guys. Everyone can benefit from lifting weights. If you don’t have any free weights around, try lifting gallons of water. Move those arms in different positions. Be sure that you don’t overdo it. We recommend lifting weights every other day if you can. It’s important to give the muscles a break.

What are some of your favorite workouts?