4 Ways to Shed Fat Fast for Summer

It is almost upon us... the best and sometimes the worst part of the year. It is a love/hate relationship for most. We love this time of year; the sunshine, BBQ's, sunshine, vacations, and my personal favorite: the ocean. However, guess what that means? Yep. Bathing suit season! Everyone I know is Googling online for those "qet fit quick" schemes, crazy diets to try, and trying to lose that extra 10 pounds that were gained over the winter. Unfortunately, it truly isn't that easy, BUT there are some ways you can help speed up fat loss so you can look even better in that bikini in a few weeks!

1.) Cut the alcohol. I hate to even say that because my favorite way to end a long day is a glass (OK or even two) of wine. But it needs to cut - if you want to lose fat fast, you need NO empty calories. That also means no soda, no juices, etc. I would also watch my intake of diet sodas because artificial sweetener can cause water retention.

2.) Watch your carbohydrates in take. Keep carbohydrates to a minimum (you still need them, of course) but watch your portions and try to avoid eating them late in the evening. Cut all 'simple carbohydrates' out, (for example: white breads, cakes, regular potatoes, chips, pasta) and eat only 'complex carbohydrates' (for example: oats, light whole wheat bread, fresh fruits and vegetables, sweet potatoes, and whole wheat pasta).

3.) Add lots of lean protein to your diet and keep the red meats to a minimum. Lean proteins are essential to maintaining a healthy weight, and burning fat. Protein is what keeps us FULL and provides energy throughout the day. There is a common misconception that eating a lot of lean proteins are what makes you 'big and bulky', that is absolutely untrue. Lean proteins are a must for losing weight. Chicken, turkey, egg whites, tuna, tilopia, salmon, whey protein powders, and venison are all great examples of lean proteins. Keep red meats to a minimum because they are higher in fat.

4.) Add High Intensity Interval Training to your fitness regimen. This type of cardio is absolutely wonderful. It is strength training and burns a ton of calories. This type of cardio usually varies from 30-45 minutes. You engage in fast motion, followed by slow and repeat. Your heartrate should max out at 83-85% percent for the sprint motion and significantly drop for your rest. This keeps your heart and body working harder than normal because of the constant change in motion. I recommend sprinting on the Tredmill as absolutely fast as you can for 60 seconds, followed by a slow walk for 40, and repeat. Or you can sprint on a bike, Stairclimber, or Elliptical.