Ah, summer. A time to spend with family and friends, sipping cocktails on the beach, or relaxing at home. There’s something about the summer months that scream relaxation and tranquility, even for those who work and have a normal routine. There’s really no explanation for it, other than summer just has a magical quality about it.

The hardest part about summer is maintaining that normal routine from Memorial Day through Labor Day. With so many temptations, it’s easy to fall into bad habits, such as skipping exercise routines and eating unhealthy foods. Following a few simple tips will help those of us who worked hard for those beach bodies maintain and stay in shape, and healthy.

Watch Your Intake
Just because you’re at a family reunion doesn’t mean that you should eat triple your calorie load for the week in a single day. Remember that you have a routine- whether it’s counting calories, or carbs, or simply eating more greens- and stick to that routine. Have those summertime favorites, such as hamburgers and ice cream, but still keep a healthy balance throughout the rest of the day. No one said you can’t enjoy tempting foods, but keep it in moderation.

Avoid Making Exercise Excuses
Whether you’re out of town with the family, or planning a ‘staycation’ at home, it’s hard to stay in an exercise routine when you’re relaxing or surrounded by those you love. Even if your routine means going to the gym for two hours a day, don’t just stop- change your plans a bit to accommodate your summer schedule. Go for walks on the beach. Plan your runs earlier in the morning to avoid the brutal summer heat. Visit the gym at your hotel or apartment complex if you can’t make it to your favorite workout facility. If you’re visiting the Destin area this summer, check out ThiBod Fitness in Santa Rosa Beach. They offer everything from yoga to zumba and you can pay for a one-time class.

Treat Yourself
Just because the kids are having ice cream doesn’t mean that you have to. Avoid extra toppings if you’re trying watching calories, and fro-yo is a good alternative. Twist Frozen Yogurt in Destin has a variety of flavors and great toppings- everything from fruit to chocolate. Indulge yourself at dinner, but avoid frozen specialty drinks. Those can easily pack on unwanted calories.

Stay Active
Even if you’re not currently in a fitness routine, it’s a good idea to stay active during those long summer days. Walks on the beach are ideal, but bicycles will help burn calories faster. Going to the Silver Sands Outlet Mall or Destin Commons is a fun way to add activity to your day. Don’t underestimate the power of playing games with friends, visiting Big Kahuna’s Water Park, or dancing the night away- those are all calorie burners that don’t even require a workout outfit.

Stay Hydrated
Remember one simple word- water. Drink water consistently throughout the day so that you don’t get dehydrated, regardless of where you are or what you’re doing. This isn’t just for summer, either- it’s important to have water as a part of your daily routine. Keep a water bottle handy or stock your fridge with recyclable containers.

You’ve worked hard to maintain your healthy lifestyle. Use summer to your advantage and stay in a routine so that the winter months are even easier. If you’re not in a routine, start one during the summer and stay healthy all year long!