Summer is finally here. For most of us, this means you’ve spent the last few months eating clean and hitting the gym for that perfect, or as-perfect-as-it’s-gonna-get, beach body. But now that the sun’s out and the patios are open, it’s easy to give in to temptation and feel like you’re falling off track. In our 4-season climate, there are only so many weekends and warm summer evenings to take advantage of, but it’s possible to enjoy the summer and keep up with your fitness goals. Here are a few ways to stay on track this summer:

Sneak in a Morning Workout

In the winter time, people pack up at the end of a workday and quietly shuffle home for a night of cosy food and hibernation. Now that the sun’s finally out, people have traded their winter layers for a seemingly endless string of plans for after-work drinks. Rather than testing your willpower on a nightly basis, consider attacking your fitness routine first thing in the morning. When you start your day with a morning workout, you’ll experience higher will-power and lighter crowds. When I work out in the morning, it leaves me feeling more relaxed and balanced for the rest of the day, and plus, there’s so much more time for activities. Finish off your workout with some protein to refuel and keep you feeling full. It’s a great way to set yourself up for healthy decision making later on.

Healthy Smoothie To-Go

Who doesn't enjoy drinking with friends? But sometimes it's hard to do so without falling off our fitness/health track. So, to not miss out on the fun times, our suggestion is to make a delicious cold protein smoothie to-go. Here is a quick recipe to get you started:

• 1 x Suppy Vanilla Whey Protein
• 400ml x Milk
• 1/2 x Banana
• 1/2 cup x Frozen blueberries and strawberries
• 2 tbsp x Greek yoghurt (to get the smoothie texture)
• 1/2 tbsp x Peanut butter (...or dont)

Suppy
Toronto, ON

Pack Your Lunch

There’s more than enough opportunity for fried patio snacks and summery drinks after 5 p.m., you don’t need to double down with over-produced restaurant food at lunch too. Set yourself up for success by packing a healthy lunch this summer. The warm weather is a great excuse to include a mix of fresh veggies, protein, and monounsaturated fats – either in the form of a salad or a rice bowl. Take your lunch outside and enjoy all the money and unnecessary calories you’re saving in the sun. To stay consistent, I like to meal prep at the start of the week and make 'BYO' lunch plans with a buddy, to keep me honest.

Try Some Fruit-Infused Water

When the sun’s beating down your neck and your air conditioning just won’t cut it, it’s easy to turn to a sugary canned beverage. Instead, consider hydrating with fruit-infused sparkling water. You can carbonate your own water with a SodaStream, and drop in some fresh fruit for some extra flavour. Have some fun with your recipes and mix in some berries, peaches, oranges, and mint. If you’ve got a reusable bottle, it’s a great thing to take with you when you’re on the go.

Be a Healthy Potlucker

Backyard barbecues usually have their fair share of hamburgers, hot dogs, and other deliciously unhealthy options. When it’s your turn to contribute to the communal meal, offer up a healthy dish that you’d be happy to include in your regular diet. This is a great way to ensure those summer parties don’t get in the way of your good habits. As an added bonus, this will provide you with an opportunity to share your fitness love with friends and family.

Get Outside

Now that the weather is finally nice, there’s no excuse to skip out on physical activity. Whether you prefer to walk, hike, swim, or bike, there's a fun outdoor activity to suit all preferences and fitness levels. If you’re looking to enjoy the weather and stay committed to your fitness, consider joining an outdoor recreation league. Most cities have organized volleyball, soccer, frisbee and football leagues that are relatively inexpensive. These leagues are also a great opportunity to meet new people and get involved in the community.

Enjoy it While it Lasts

In our wonderful 4-season climate, the warm weather disappears just as quickly as it arrives. While the summer may feel hectic and overwhelming, soon the leaves on the trees will be changing, kids will be going to back to school, and you’ll be wondering where the time went. So enjoy it while it’s here. That appetizer or cold beer on the patio may not be the best thing for your fitness objectives, but wellness is all about balance. Plus, you can always work it off in the gym in the morning.