She’s a Brick House!

Ready to tone up for swimsuit season?! Here are some quick tips!

-Increase Your Intake of Lean Proteins
This means cut out the country fried chicken girls…. (sad face) … And replace with a leaner choice like Chicken Breast (skinless…boneless). Lean meats such as chicken breast, turkey, and tuna– are said to be high in protein and help to increase your ability to burn fat. When working on toning your body, you’ll need to provide your body with the right energy burning tools to turn that fat into muscle! Most fitness experts recommend chicken and egg whites as your top protein providers.

Other suggestions for foods high in protein and low in fat are: Almonds, Cashews, Fish, Soy Beans, Beans- Lentil –Pinto-Black, Sunflower Seeds, Pecans, Flax Seeds, Cottage Cheese, Yogurt, Tofu, and Veal. Also, try various protein supplement shakes from your local vitamin store.

Note: Every meal should have about 40% carbohydrates, 40% Protein, 20% Fats (http://www.about.com/ – search bodybuilding)

-Try Eating Smaller but More Frequent Meals Throughout the Day
This may sound like a set up for failure, but I promise ... if you stick to the proper nutrition, this practice will boost your metabolism.

-Get Your Heart Rate Up

Of course you’ll need to add weight/strength training into your workout regimen. While working on your muscles, make sure to keep that heart rate up, this will increase the fat that you are burning. Suggestion: switch between weights and cardio during your workout. Also, push yourself for an extra set on those weights, squats, push-ups or sit-ups!

Note: Sports such as boxing, kickboxing, and cycling are known to build muscle while keeping the heart rate up.


Health Benefit : Aside from looking good and feeling confident – Did you know that loosing at least 10% of your body fat will reduce your risk for Heart Disease (number 1 killer for women) and reduce your cholesterol level!