As many countries and local authorities eased COVID-19 restrictions throughout spring, people have made a return to gyms hoping to shed the excess quarantine fat and regain that lost muscle mass. There is no doubt that people want to look good this summer as holidaymakers are making their way to beaches and lakes. 

How to Push Your Fitness to Its Limits This Summer

If this seems a lot like you, you may be slightly disheartened by how much your fitness levels have dropped. This could be in the form of weights you can lift to just not being able to keep up with the pace you’re used to on the treadmill. Once your body adjusts to the new routine, you want to work your way up gradually. It’s also important to give it all you’ve got in your sessions so you can get back on track.

This article highlights 4 steps you can take to make sure you get the most out of your workouts!

Embrace the sun

With the sun up, it would be a shame to spend your cardio time in a dimly lit gym! Just being outside absorbing that sun can increase your serotonin levels. This boosts your mood and improves focus. This translates to higher levels of motivation to keep going. Whether you’re doing calisthenics or running around the park, you are going to feel the urge to do one more rep or do another lap!

However, keep in mind to protect yourself from the dangers of prolonged UV exposure by applying sunscreen and wear sweat-wicking fabrics. Running hats are a great investment for your summer runs as they are made to keep your head cool and keep the sun out of your face, thus keeping you focused throughout.

Get a Workout Buddy

When I mean workout buddy, I mean someone that is serious about their gains. Preferably, it is someone you don’t know well that is in better shape than you are. This is because you are more likely to ignore the nagging “I’ll go tomorrow” voice inside your head and show up when you subconsciously feel the need to impress someone. If not, you’ll be making a fool out of yourself. 

This logic applies to the training session itself too. While you might not be able to lift as much weight or run as far as they can, you will certainly gain their respect when you’re giving your all, with sweat getting in your eyes. This is more motivation than any pre-workout drink can give!

Clean Up Your Diet

If you’re used to eating a bag of chips every night, cut it by half. Eventually, you’ll stop. This habit will shape the rest of your daily eating habits if you persist. Charles Duhigg calls this phenomenon the “keystone habit”. 

Your diet and fitness go hand-in-hand. A good diet is crucial in making sure you can train as hard as you can. If you don’t believe me, try eating a Big Mac for lunch and have a workout after. Come back the next few days with a balanced meal. You will feel the difference a healthy meal can make! Physically, you feel stronger. Mentally, you know that you are giving your body the best fuel it can get.

Keep Your Mental Health in Check

Fitness isn’t just about what you do with your body. It has much to do with mental health as well. If you had a crappy day, take 5 minutes to meditate before you walk into the gym. Learn to focus on your breath and keep your mind on it for as long as you can. While it doesn’t solve your worldly problems, it does clear your mind. A clear mind means fewer distractions, and with fewer distractions, you can give your workout everything you’ve got!