Getting in Summer Shape - It’s not Too late, the things you need to start now!

Today I'm sharing some tips and thoughts on fitness and how I plan to get into shape for the summer. If you're anything like me, slightly unclubbable, black belt procrastinator, you're seeing just a hint of good weather and already thinking of sending out those Summer BBQ invites. Those beach holidays with the top off. YES, it's time to shake that extra chicken off and get lean.

TIP 1. Ditch Cereal

Breakfast really is for wimps, as Del Boy would say. You don't need cereal, you're not 14 years old. I've ditched cereal and toast in the morning and have returned to the tried and tested boiled egg with spices and green smoothies. This will get me through to lunch, and this leads me onto preparation.

TIP 2. Meal Prep

Preparation is key. At the start of the week I get the meat from the butchers, the fish from the fishmongers, and the gluten-free pasta. I put the fish in the freezer for the short freeze, only taking out what I need the night before. Having a good plan for meal prep will nullify those desires for KFC. My beloved KFC, I promise I will return. Invest in good tupperware, have some nuts lying around in bowls around the house for those snacks. If you're up for the challenge its hummus and carrots for lunch. Get the good tupperware with the colour coded lids.

TIP 3. Drink every other night

One on one off. I've been struggling with alcohol again. Not getting hammered every night, but a beer or two every night, maybe a few shots. So I've implemented a one on one off plan. No drinking MON, WEDS, FRI. This makes sure I get to have something to look forward to. On the nights off I'm experimenting with some alcohol free wine or mint tea. Don't call me a hero.

TIP 4. The morning run

I used to love running. Still do. Lately I've been telling myself that I have no time to work out. No great routes to run. It's all an excuse. Nothing is as fun as watching F1, doing videos for the socials etc. Playing with the dogs. So I've carved out time in the mornings now. Just 20 minutes, before everyone is awake. I make it my thing. I see it as meditation. I don't try to run long distances or beat records. Just getting out, getting a little sweat on. Having a good think about life for 20 minutes and not looking at a screen. It's made a difference.

TIP 5. The end game

Motivation is always key. And I'm not afraid to say there is a little vanity involved. I see myself in some insane situation at a garden party where all the dads are together and we're all talking dad

bods. The wives are there calling us chunky monkeys and telling us to get our tops off and see who has the most chicken. I'll be the silent assassin, waiting my turn. Then people will get to see all the hard work that I've put in these past couple of months. Truth is, the reason is not important. Getting healthy is important. Building up an immune system is vital.

BONUS TIP:

If you're looking to do a little fasting, and need help with the craving, try having some Himalayan Salt on standby. It quells the hunger pangs and stops you from going for anything sugary.