There is less than a month left of summer now and I hope everyone is in the shape that they hoped to be in. If not, you will be if you take advantage of the following tips. I’m not going to lie and say you will look like a super model before summer is out. That would not be realistic but you can absolutely see some measurable improvements in energy, metabolism, and even body composition (the amount of fat you have in relation to muscle).

Tip #1: Eat thermic foods and meals!

This is a biggie. If you have been reading my articles, you know by now that diets DON'T work!

You can do wonders, though, by eating foods that cause you to burn more calories through digestion and absorption. Ideally, theses meals would contain a lean protein, a complex carbohydrate, and a vegetable.

Tip #2: Move!

It sounds so simple but so few people do it. Recently I entered a building that only had three floors. Two young women walked in the same time as me and one of them insisted that they take the elevator because she was feeling lazy.

Needless to say, this young lady was not the ideal image of “fitness.” The sad thing is that she may be first in line for the next magic pill or miracle diet.

Tip #3: Start with using your own body weight!

You don’t need any equipment. I did a workout session outdoors today with my girlfriend. We did walking lunges, one-legged squats, step-ups, staggered grip pushups, feet elevated pushups, and pull-ups. Chrissy even did full sit ups while hanging from my body (with her legs wrapped around my waist).

We probably got a better workout than if we were using a $5,000 piece of equipment.

Of course I’m not suggesting you start with one-legged squats and pull-ups if you are a beginner. But start with the basics. If you can’t do an exercise, you can modify it. Instead of doing full squats, do half squats (go only half way down). For more information on body weight exercises check out my upcoming boot camp here http://www.howtogetlean.com/fitness-bootcamp.html

Tip #4: Set goals, both short and long term!

Set realistic goals for both the short and the long term. Set dates for your goals and commit to them. If you don’t reach your goal, set a new date and/or goal. If you are not sure what some realistic goals are you can hire a qualified fitness professional to help guide you. I happen to know a good one!

Tip #5: Have Fun!

You are much less likely to stick with your fitness plan for the long term if you are not having a good time. This also ties in with tip #3. The exercises are much more fun for me than being on treadmill for 45 minutes or going from one machine to the next.

Tip #6: Get Professional guidance.

This is something I believe anyone serious about getting in shape should do, especially if you are new to exercising. Not only will you be more effective but you will be safer if you invest in the right service.

Many people do not think they need a trainer but if you think about it, it doesn’t make sense. You hire an accountant to do your taxes and a dentist to fix your teeth. Why not work with a trainer to help you with your fitness? Is it any less important?

3) Last call for boot camp