Bikini Body Workout
by Kristin Sidorov
Beach season usually carries a wave of what we like to call the “re-resolution”: To backtrack and revisit those pledges we made at the start of the year that somehow (ahem) got pushed to the back burner around the second week of January. Bikinis are a hell of a motivation to lose those last few pounds, aren’t they?
While the idea of strutting around in a two-piece might seem like a far-off (and slightly anxiety-producing) dream right now, don’t worry—there’s still plenty of time to reach your goals by summer. Stay motivated and stick to a healthy fitness plan that combines circuit, interval, and strength training that will boost your workouts into overdrive.
Circuit
Mix up your average workout by starting with about 10 minutes of cardio, followed by 15 to 30 reps of strength training, and repeat two more times. Rest no more than a few minutes between each exercise (but be sure to catch your breath and keep hydrated), and you’ll have burned about 600 calories and given your metabolism a hefty boost.
Intervals
There’s no better way to burn more calories fast than interval training. Alternate between periods of high-intensity exercise and low-intensity exercise to really get the most from your cardio workout. Intervals can be applied to almost any cardio exercise—running, biking, jumping rope, or dancing. Plug a few days of intervals into your weekly routine and you’ll notice a difference. Just be sure to always warm up, cool down, and know your limits. Oh yes, and please clear the floor of anything that might trip up your fast-moving booty.
Strength Training
Overall body strength is key to health. When lifting weights, do three sets of 15 to 20 reps, using a weight that’s challenging, especially during those last few reps. You want to feel the burn! Focusing on core strength is essential, too; it whittles down your midsection, back, and buns while improving overall stability and posture. Crunches, planks, leg raises, and swimming are all excellent core strengtheners.
Like to run instead? Read Olympian Kara Goucher’s book – Kara Goucher’s Running for Women – From First Steps to Marathons
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