5 Steps to Shaping Up for the Big Day: Say “I Do” to Your Personal Trainer

It’s not a secret that most women want to look the most fabulous they’ve EVER looked on their wedding day. Hairstylists are enlisted, make-up artists, tailors… But what about the bod? We all know exercise is the key to health; it’s also the key to a killer silhouette on your big day. And don’t forget the honeymoon – if you’re headed to a tropical destination, you’ll be eyeing the bikini you’ve always wanted to wear (and sexy, barely-there lingerie too.) So how do you get the inches to disappear and the toned arms you want to show off in your dress? Say “goodbye” to crash diets and "hello" to personal trainers. Following these 5 steps will get you the figure you’re dying to show off.

1. Say “I Do” to a Personal Trainer. When you’re planning that wedding budget, make sure a personal trainer is on your list. You may think that working out on your own is the most effective plan, but many people lose motivation on their own. A fantastic fitness centre will not only provide you with a professional trainer that can work around your hectic schedule, it will also provide you with fitness evaluations, and nutritional consultations to make sure you know good food from bad and help you look divine on your day.
2. Make H2O Your BFF. Not only does water keep you hydrated and refreshed, it also keeps your hair, skin, nails and insides in good working order and looking sensational. Make sure to get 6-8 8oz. glass a day (4 big drinking glasses full) and not only will you be glowing on the outside, you’ll also be able to keep up with your workouts.
3. Ditch the Crash Dieting. Slimming down and shaping up for the nuptials should never include crash or fad diets. Chugging maple syrup or cabbage soup is not going to benefit that body in the long run. The goal is the wedding day but why not use a sustainable eating plan provided by a reputable fitness centre professional. Try eating small meals 4-5 times per day (and one snack) and make sure you’re choosing food that fuels your form, instead of comfort foods. Weight loss depends on revving up your metabolism with consistent healthy food, not slowing it down with an empty belly.
4. Start Cheating Before the Wedding! Allow yourself a cheat day once a week. It’s no fun if you can’t have a slice of pizza or a glass of wine (or two) at the end of your long and over-planned week. Make sure you don’t overdo and monitor your portions, but make sure you allow yourself a little bit of indulgence. You are after all, the bride!
5. Relax and Enjoy the Ride. Being super-stressed can lead to excess cortisol production in your body, which leads to heightened fat storage. In layman’s terms this means: the more stressed you are, the more fat you keep! The more calm you are, the faster your body will let go of its cozy padding. Deep breathing for even 1-2 minutes per day, or a nightly bubble bath can truly soothe the savage bride.

Your groom and your guests will be stunned when they see a glowing healthy woman floating down the aisle on the biggest day of her life. Most of all you’ll reap the benefits of dedication and healthy choices and be one happy bride.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is currently researching Edmonton Personal Trainers and healthy lifestyle choices.