With bikini season right around the corner, many women may be wondering what new fitness programs are out there that are quick, effective, and most importantly – healthy!
Many of you know that I started my fitness journey about a year and a half ago; I came across Kayla Itsines incredible transformation pictures on Instagram from girls who used her fitness guides and knew I had to try it.
I’ve never been overweight, but I have struggled with being toned – something I thought I could achieve by just doing sit ups and cardio! Not the case.
If you’re debating on starting BBG (Bikini Body Guide) or already have, here are 10 things that I’ve learned that I hope can help you!
1. Don’t be so strict with your diet.
I followed Kayla’s HELP (Healthy Eating Lifestyle Plan) religiously for the first 12 weeks, because hey – I wasn’t about to commit to something half-ass. If I was doing it, I was doing it 100%. I’m glad I did, but looking back I could have had a couple cheat meals to reward myself and it wouldn’t have derailed my progress like I thought it would.
2. Learn to be comfortable working out in front of men at the gym.
No ‘ladies only’ room at your gym? No problem! Put in your ear buds and focus on your workout. Trust me – you’ll have a much better workout when you realize men really don’t care what you’re doing. Just do you!
3. Invest in a good pair of Asics.
I know you’ll always want to look at the latest pair of Nike’s, and they’re great for cardio! But in my opinion, nothing provides support and stability like Asics. And they come in amazing colours!
4. Mix up the type of LISS (Low Intensity Steady State) workouts you do.
Walking on a treadmill can get so boring! When weather permits, try exploring a new hiking trail, go swimming, or try horseback riding with a friend.
5. Don’t be scared to increase the amount of weight you lift beyond the BBG recommendations.
Everyone is different – make sure to challenge yourself.
6. Think ahead and plan weekend meals.
It’s so easy to only think of meal prepping on workdays, but often times the weekend is just as big of a struggle! If you’re like me, you’re often away from home on weekends so try making healthy snacks to bring with you or choosing wisely when you’re at a restaurant.
7. Once the timer stops – keep going!
I found that if I finished a circuit before the 7 minutes were up, I’d be happy with my progress and stop. Big no, no! Keep going until the timer has stopped. If you’re tired of the workouts, try doing one move until the time is up. I like to do squats as a time filler to get in extra booty reps.
8. Keep spare socks and underwear in your gym bag.
Because nothing is worse than wearing running shoes with bare feet or having panty lines because it was laundry day.
9. Take a lot of progress pictures.
This is something I didn’t do a lot of at the very beginning, I wish I had more to compare my progress to!
10. Go easy on yourself and enjoy the ride.
It’s not a trend or a fad, it’s a lifestyle. So take it a day at a time and go easy on yourself if you have a bad day or don’t feel motivated. Progress should be slow! The tortoise wins the race, not the hare 
Do you have any fitness tips? feel free to leave a comment below!
Carmen Brosseau
Health & Fitness Contributor
Instagram: @carmenbrosseau
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