That's Fit

Summer is here, despite what the calendar may say (the solstice falls on June 20th this year). The beaches are open, the traffic is unbearable, and the heat is oppressive. Not exactly the cheeriest of pictures, I know, but with those negatives out of the way, we can now start focusing on the positives -- chief among them being you.

Transforming the human body seems an easy task for some people and an impossibility for others. But achieving some semblance of positivity in this regard is not as hard as it may sometimes seem. There are literally hundreds of ways to improve our physical health. Obviously, following a regular exercise program is one of them. Adhering to a healthy and sensible diet is equally as important. But that's all macro level, wide brush sort of stuff. Nothing new, nothing specific enough to really take hold of. So, that's why I decided on four quick tips that offer precise methods for kick-starting your positive physical transformation.

1 - Perform a Resistance Training Circuit. By cutting down the break time in between sets during your resistance training workout, you will burn more calories and improve cardiovascular health. Try performing a circuit of five to seven exercises with little to no rest in between sets, and then, if possible, go through the same circuit once more.


2 - Try a Fat-Free Greek-style Yogurt: Regular yogurt does have its health benefits (acidophilus, vitamins, calcium, etc.), but it also has a great deal of sugar and calories. Even the low-fat versions are typically quite high in sugar. But, Greek-style yogurt is different; containing about 13 grams of protein and 6 grams or fewer of added sugar per serving.

3 - Whole Grain Crackers Instead of White Bread: White bread is very nasty on blood glucose levels. It will cause them to spike higher than will a slice of chocolate cake!! Whole grain crackers, by contrast, take much longer to digest, which means that their effect on your blood sugars will be far more in range. Plus, the added fiber -- combined with the longer digestion I just mentioned -- will leave you feeling fuller for a longer period of time than will white bread.

4 - Beans and Beans: Brown rice is better for you than white rice, basically for the same reasons listed in #2 about whole grain crackers versus white bread. But, brown beans are an even better option. If you're a beans and rice fan, maybe try a little beans and beans instead. One cup of kidney beans has 16 grams of fiber and 13 grams of protein. For variety, try making a dish with kidney, black, and cannellini beans.

Hopefully these tips are specific and detailed enough to help you on your way. As I said, summer is already here. So, there's no better time to start making a change for the better than now. For more tips and advice, visit our sister site, AOL Body, by clicking here.