Temptation: Earn it, then burn it!

Here is a topic I've been mulling over for a while. It seems a good time to roll it out, now that the temptations of summer are upon us. Summer is a time for more social gatherings around the barbecue, lounging by dock or poolside with snacks and cold beverages, vacation time and a change of routine... you get the idea!

"Well, I've been so good... a little more [insert favourite tempting snack here] won't hurt"
"I can get back on track on Monday."
"I'll do an extra set in my workout and burn it off."

These phrases can become a mantra during the summer months if there is no plan to stay on track. Most of us will react to temptation by rationalizing, fasting, procrastinating or going crazy with a killer workout to make up for the calories taken in or activity missed.

Try taking both a proactive and a reactive approach. This will allow you to quell temptation, and better yet, to give into it on occasion and still keep your goals in reach.

Let's deal with the proactive approach first... this is the "Earn it" phase!
Plan ahead if you are likely to indulge at an event
- Offer to bring veggies, fruit, low fat snack items, and then be sure to partake of them!
- Enjoy regular healthy meals and snacks through the day
- Avoid starving yourself, you're likely to overindulge if you are ravenous when you see food!
- Drink lots of water before and during the event
- Pre-exercise before your outing (a quick walk, jog, fitness class or weight workout)
- Create a positive mindset. Decide how much temptation you've earned and stick to your guns!
- Keep active: play frisbee, swim or dance.
- Make active choices: a "walking tour" instead of a bus tour; nix the golf cart; take the stairs!

The "Burn it" phase comes when you are typically "reacting" to the guilt and negative feelings of derailing your healthy habits (even if only temporarily). When the party or holiday is over, it is time to burn what you earned! Keep your reactions positive and reasonable:
- Eat healthy nutritious meals and snacks; avoid fasting or crash diets!
- Drink even more water
- Get back into your exercise routine right away. Kick it up a bit, but don't overdo it!
- Keep track of your measurements, weight or nutrition log... what ever you are doing to keep yourself accountable. DO IT!

If you plan ahead a little bit, and use a combination of the proactive "earn it" approach along with a positively framed "burn it" phase after temptation strikes you will sail through the Summer with your goals and health intact.

Enjoy, and we'll talk soon!