Dreading your high school reunion? Afraid that you're not as slender or muscular as you were in your younger years? Whether you have months to go or only weeks before the big day, these five training secrets will help you lose weight, gain muscle, and get fit in time to look great in front of all your old classmates.
Treadmills and elliptical cardio Never underestimate the power of aerobic training.
Just adding thirty minutes of physical activity a day creates tremendous increases in endurance, speed, weight loss, and physical tone.
Although most people believe that you can only gain muscle through weight training, treadmills are the key to toned calves, thighs, and buttocks.
Lose weight with your diet Looking for a diet quick fix to get fit for the big day? Instead of drastically cutting calories, cut out the foods that tend to cause bloat.
Avoid sugar, starches, and grains.
Stick to fresh fruits and vegetables, which are easily digested and tend to decrease water retention.
You might also want to consider getting a toning body wrap right before the big day: your skin cells naturally hold a significant amount of water, and a body wrap can pull that water out, deflating the skin cells and creating a temporary slimming effect.
These wraps are particularly effective for large legs and arms, but will work on almost any part of the body.
Gain muscle with regular strength training The best way to get fit for your reunion is with targeted, focused strength training.
Careful research will reveal the exercises that target your problem areas, and a good selection of free weights will allow you to do almost any exercise you will encounter.
Take advantage of the resources you have, and let them help you reach your fitness goals.
Always be careful not to overstress yourself.
As your body gains muscle, you want to nurture yourself, not pull a muscle.
With proper care and a well-designed plan, you'll get fit quickly.
Do cardio in your own home Many people underestimate the value of having cardio equipment right on hand.
However, the number one factor that stops people from exercising isn't a lack of desire, but a lack of time.
Few gyms are open really late, and even fewer are open long hours on weekends.
Busy people just don't have the time to work out as they would like, and end up having to skip as often as they can make it.
Even if you choose to hire an in-home personal trainer, an elliptical or treadmill is a good supplement for the days when your trainer isn't there.
Take your workout outside When you move out of your home or gym and into the great outdoors, the conditions will present a whole new set of challenges.
Regular outdoor workouts are a key component of any get fit plan.
If you want to lose weight fast, go running in your local park.
The changing terrain will help you burn away the pounds, and the scenery will be a fun and refreshing change.