Winter is here, but don’t get too cozy – summer is already creeping up on us! It’s important to remember that change takes time. Quick fixes and summer crash diets are often unsafe and ineffective in the long run. Start getting beach-ready now with our three-step approach:
1. Good, clean eating:
If you are looking to lose weight, your diet is the first place to start. Try making the following changes in your daily lifestyle:
• High quality, lean protein with each meal and snack e.g. USN BlueLab™ 100% Whey Protein, skinless chicken, eggs, tofu or lean beef.
• Smaller portions of low GI and veggie-based carbohydrates, such as sweet potato, butternut, oats and quinoa.
• Correctly portioned healthy fat sources with meals/snacks e.g. ¼ of an avocado, 1 tsp of natural nut butter or 1 tsp of olive oil.
• 1-2 portions of fruit and 3-5 portions of non-starchy veggies per day.
• Water intake of 2-3 litres is recommended to aid normal body function and speed up metabolic rate.
Remember to listen to your body and hunger signals, it’s never a good idea to force yourself to eat if you’re not hungry – just don’t skip meals to find yourself binging on unhealthy foods later!
2. Get moving:
Exercise is an amazing way to boost cardiovascular fitness and strength while enhancing your mood at the same time! Get moving, but make sure it is something fun to keep you motivated. Involve your friends and family in your exercise routine to bump up your accountability. Join your local gym, sign up for outdoor runs or exercise classes or simply make time for some home workouts to keep your metabolic rate high! We recommend 30-45 minutes of exercise 4-5 times per week in addition to living a healthy, active lifestyle.
3. Supplement right:
Whether your goal is to lose or gain weight or simply tone up, supplements are a great way to boost your nutritional intake and enhance your progress. It’s important to remember that supplements are designed to complement a healthy eating and exercise plan.
3-step Summer Solution:
Workout Solution:
USN BCAA Amino+:
What is it? A stimulant-free, branched chain amino acid supplement in the optimal ratio 2:1:1 to enhance lean muscle maintenance, endurance and recovery. Contains glutamine to combat stiffness.
Recommended use: Mix 3 scoops into 300 ml water and consume during your workout. You may have an additional serving after a strenuous session.
USN B4-Burn Sherbet:
What is it? An energising, fat-torching pre-workout in sherbet form. Contains l-carnitine to turn stored fat into fuel. Free from sugar, creatine and B-alanine.
Recommended use: Consume 1 sachet 30 minutes before your workout, or you can alternatively mix 1 sachet into 150-200 ml water.
Recovery solution:
USN Diet Whey IsoLean:
What is it? The ultimate weight control post-workout or snack-time whey shake for lean muscle development and weight management. Contains l-carnitine and chromium to enhance fat-burning and appetite-control.
Recommended use: Mix 1 scoop into 150-200 ml cold water and consume as a snack or directly after training.
TIP: For a warm, delicious protein pudding, add 30 ml hot water to 1 scoop Diet Whey IsoLean and 1 tsp almond butter, mix well and enjoy!
Don’t wait until the last minute to get in shape for summer, start now!