How to Get in Shape for a Bikini

As spring turns into summer, many of us have to face the dreaded swimsuit season. If you want to wear a sexy bikini, you need to have a healthy body image, and it doesn't hurt to have a hot body to match. Depending on your fitness level, how much weight you want to lose and your commitment to the process, you may see results in just 6 to 8 weeks of hard work.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Free weights or nautilus machines

1. Tighten your tush by doing quad squats. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart and use your upper thighs to lower your body several inches. Make sure your knees never go past your toes.

2. Get in the habit of regular cardio exercise. Work your way up to 40 minutes per session, with a goal of three to four sessions a week. Keep things interesting and fun by signing up for an aerobics or spinning class at your local gym or community center.

3. Sculpt and shape up the lower abdominals. Recline on a bench and place your hands over your head. With your knees slightly bent, grip the bench as you raise and lower your legs. Do as many reps as you can, rest a moment and repeat another set until you feel the burn.

4. Get your thighs in bikini shape using hip abductors, leg presses and leg-curl nautilus equipment found at your gym. You can also hit the track, the hiking trail or the local swimming hole for a leg-toning workout.

5. Target the abs with tummy crunches. Make sure you keep your back in line by looking up toward the ceiling as you lift your core. Be sure to exhale as you lift your chin to your chest and inhale on the way down.

6. Get a base tan before you hit the beach in your bikini. A tan helps to cover up blemishes, spider veins and cellulite.

Tips & Warnings

• Losing around 2 pounds per week is considered healthy weight loss for most body types. Plan your weight-loss goals accordingly.
• If you decide to do squats, start out with one set of 10 and build up to three sets of 10 to 15 squats per session. Strive to reach a squatting position, with your legs parallel to the floor.
• Consult with your physician before you begin a workout program, especially if you've recently been injured, you're out of shape or you've had a serious illness in the last 6 months.