Summer Ready: 10 Simple Tips for Feeling Your Best
With summer approaching, our thoughts turn to sunny days, lighter layers and maybe even ‘daring to bare’. For me, that means focusing not just on physical fitness, but on mental wellbeing too.
That’s why I’ve enlisted the help of personal trainer Stewart Robinson to share his top 10 tips for getting in shape – from the inside out.
1. Eat More Protein
Protein fuels fat burning, tones lean muscle, and repairs tissue after exercise. It also keeps you feeling fuller for longer, helping you make healthier choices.
2. Reduce Potential Food Allergens
Certain foods can trigger inflammation and hinder weight loss. Bread, white rice, and pasta are common culprits – try reducing them for a few weeks and see how your energy and waistline respond.
3. Fill Up on Vegetables
Packed with nutrients and low in carbs, veggies are your best friend. They keep blood sugar stable without the spikes some fruits can cause.
4. Skip the Fizzy Drinks
Swap sugary sodas for water, or jazz it up with lemon, ginger, cucumber, or chilled herbal tea.
5. Avoid Late-Night Snacking
Aim to finish dinner 2–3 hours before bed. This gives your body time to focus on muscle repair and fat burning while you sleep.
6. Everything in Moderation
Enjoy red wine and dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) in small amounts. Remember: one glass of wine is about the same calories as a chocolate éclair – so pace yourself.
7. Practice Portion Control
Stop eating when you’re satisfied, not when the plate is empty.
8. Stay Hydrated
Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Keep a water bottle handy to sip throughout the day.
9. Plan a Cheat Day
Looking forward to a treat can help you resist temptation during the week.
10. Keep Cheat Days in Check
Indulge mindfully – enjoy your favourite treats without undoing your hard work.
Making small, consistent changes now can help you feel energised and ready to make the most of the warmer months ahead. Here’s to a healthy, happy summer!