Looking to shed those extra pounds you gained this winter? It’s time to change your lifestyle. Adopt a lifestyle that incorporates healthy eating and regular exercise. Want to work out on your own at your house? Flex Fitness Equipment can satisfy all your fitness needs with the latest exercise equipment at an affordable price. Here are 10 tips to losing that winter weight and hitting summer in your stride:

1. Start moving

Cardiovascular exercise is very important. Complete at least 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise or 90 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. If you break it down that’s not much as you can complete 30 minutes of activity for five days and have two days off. Purchase one of the top-of-the-line treadmills, stationary bikes or ellipticals and knock out that cardio every day. You will burn calories, increase your aerobic endurance and improve the functioning of your heart and lungs.

2. Drink water

Cut out the sugary drinks and stick to water. Try to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day for increased benefits. By cutting out the sugary drinks, you will lose weight in a hurry and your body will thank you. Increasing water intake is important when regularly exercising as well because you sweat plenty of it out.

3. Don’t get attached to a number

Set a realistic goal for weight loss but don’t stress about it. Each week will be different when it comes to weight loss. Don’t get frustrated and continue putting in the hard work each day.

4. Lift weights

You don’t have to lift 100-pound dumbbells to feel the benefits of resistance training. Everyone is different and has different goals. Want to increase muscular endurance? Choose lighter weights and perform 15 reps or more to feel the benefits. With increased lean muscle mass, more calories are burned each day.

5. Find an activity you like

There are going to be days when you don’t want to exercise, but you will get out of bed and do it. That’s normal. However, find something you enjoy. Whether that is using the elliptical or rowing machine, jumping rope or performing a kettlebell workout, find an activity you enjoy and exercise will be something you look forward too.

6. Cook your own meals

You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to eat healthy. It is important to make your kitchen a healthy place though. Don’t bring the highly-processed foods into your home. Instead opt for foods that are low in fat content and have excellent nutritional value. Stick to fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats. If you do that, you will lose body fat and provide your body with the necessary fuel to get through your workouts.

7. Cut down on the salt intake

Sodium is an essential mineral in the body but too much can be a bad thing. Avoid foods that are high in sodium and don’t add salt to your meals. Too much salt can increase blood pressure, increase bloating and make you hungrier and thirstier.

8. Reward yourself

There is no such thing as a cheat meal. If you have done an excellent job during the week working out and eating healthy, go out for a meal of your choice. It doesn’t have to be healthy but you deserve it. Keep it to one meal and don’t allow it in your kitchen which is the healthy zone.

9. Find a support system

Whether it’s family or friends, ask them to respect your goals and your lifestyle. When you need advice, lean on them and they will help you stay focused and on track. Having a healthy social life is important and is an essential part of our health.

10. Log your progress

If you’re lifting weights one day, record what you did. Be specific right down to the sets, reps and weights. By logging your progress, you are more apt to continue and achieve your goal. Make a food log. Write it down or use a fitness app. This is a convenient way to track your calories and the calorie breakdown.