Bikini Body Guide

By Heather Steel on December 17th, 2008

If you’re anything like me, you probably experience the moment every year in February where you walk into a department store to buy a jacket or a peacoat on sale and are horrified to see that the activewear section has been taken over by swimsuits. And not just any swimsuits, but the tiniest swimsuits you have ever seen. For me, the mere vision of my winter-white body slipping into a teeny bikini in future months is enough to shake me out of my “I don’t have to diet in the winter because I’ll be wearing heavy clothes” mantra and jolt me back into my “Oh my goodness, time to get back to the gym” mindset.

For those of you like me who have overindulged in the cold winter months and need to get back on track to bikini shape ASAP, here are some tips:

- Hit the gym for at least 45 minutes, at least 4 times per week. Remember that Cardio is great for shedding overall bulge, whereas strength training will make you look more toned.

- Cut back on simple carbohydrates such as those in white breads and sweets. If you must have carbs, stick with brown rice or whole wheat pasta.

- Reduce your alcohol intake. Alcoholic beverages can contain an amazing amount of calories. If you must drink, the best bets are mixed drinks with calorie-free mixers such as club soda or diet soda, or light beer.

- Drink lots of water. Hydrating will make you feel full and curb hunger. Thirst often mimics hunger, so it is a good idea to drink an 8 oz glass of water whenever you feel hungry to see if you were actually just experiencing thirst.

- Eat a small meal every 4-6 hours. This will keep hunger in check and prevent you from overeating at meals. Eating often can also speed up your metabolism, allowing you to burn more calories.

- Get enough sleep. Studies show that we eat more when suffering from lack of sleep.

And the number one tip: no matter what you do between now and bikini season, the most important tip for looking great in your bathing suit is CONFIDENCE. Feeling confident will cause you to stand taller and prouder, and people will see you for how you see yourself. So get out there and enjoy the summer weather when it comes along – you’ve earned it after suffering through the cold winter months.