Is that itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny, yellow polka-dot bikini taunting you from your closet? You are not alone. This is the time of year that many of us realize that we’ve perhaps let our nutritious diet and faithful exercise program fall by the wayside. That’s okay, though, as it’s more than possible to get back on track. And there are plenty of motivators to help you kick it into high gear for bathing suit season. Looking for five reasons to get in shape this spring? Read on.
1. The Season of Little Clothing Approaches
As we mentioned, there’s not much of a better motivator to get in shape than to think about hitting the sand with love handles. Of course, you don’t have to have the perfect body to feel confident in a bathing suit but it helps to be healthy and fit. Perhaps you’ve got a tropical vacation planned and don’t want to feel self-conscious when you take off your cover-up. That’s as good a reason as any to take your workout routine up a notch. And don’t forget—beach towels are always a great idea for any beach destination.
2. It’ll Up Your Energy Level
It might sound counterproductive but an intense sweat session on a regular basis will increase your energy level. “A lot of times when people are fatigued, the last thing they want to do is exercise,” notes researcher and co-director of the University of Georgia exercise psychology laboratory Patrick O’Connor, PhD. “But if you’re physically inactive and fatigued, being just a bit more active will help.” If you’re not up for a super intense sweat sesh, consider going for a walk. This will renew your energy and improve your outlook on the day without leaving you feeling completely wiped.
3. Getting in Shape Will Pay Off in the Bedroom
It’s science, yo, and we’re not even kidding. When you exercise, your brain produces endorphins that release sex hormones that are similar to the hormones released during intercourse. The more you produce these endorphins, the more likely you are to become aroused. Of course, there is also the fact that we tend to feel better about our bodies and ourselves when we exercise, which makes it more likely that we will initiate sex. Too much exercise, however, can have the opposite effect, so remember that when you head into that second hour at the gym. Less can sometimes indeed be more.
4. You’ll Set a Good Example
If you live in an area that has been getting hit hard with cold weather, spring is an ideal time to shake out those cobwebs. This is particularly true if you’ve got kids and, whether you realize it or not, little eyes are always watching. Perhaps you’ve gotten a bit too lenient on how much screen, tablet, or video game time you’ve allowed them. Set the good example. Strap on those running shoes. Hop on that bike. Take that scenic hike you’ve had on your radar for months now. Either take the kids with you or do it yourself. Either way, you’re showing them that a healthy lifestyle is important and that you want to be around for them for a long time.
5. It’ll Round Out Your Healthy Lifestyle
Spring is naturally a time we tend to evaluate our eating habits. The warmer temperatures typically mean less appetite anyway so perhaps it’s time to go for that home detox you’ve wanted to try. If you’re not into Detoxes, spring is simply a good time to assess how many refined sugars and other items void of nutrition we are putting into our body. Pair these tweaks with regular exercise and you’ll feel unstoppable before you know it.
Looking for a bit of motivation this spring? Think of these reasons the next time you think of indulging your inner couch potato and maybe—just maybe—you’ll take that walk instead.
