6 Fitness Tips for Brides-to-Be

Discover the dos and don'ts to getting in shape for the wedding.

Whether you want to shed some excess pounds or just hope to tone up a bit before the big day, it is not uncommon for people to want to get in shape after getting engaged.

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Photo: Chung Li Photography

Whether you want to shed some excess pounds or just hope to tone up a bit before the big day, it is not uncommon for people to want to get in shape after getting engaged. Even if you’ve had fitness goals for a while, sometimes a deadline can help with motivation you may have previously been lacking. While we by no means think losing weight is necessary to have a dream wedding, it’s never a bad time to improve exercise and eating habits! To help you along your fitness journey, here are some dos and don’ts for brides-to-be. 

dos and don'ts of bridal fitness, fitness tips for brides who want to stay in shape

Photo by The Hickenloopers 

Do set goals. Having a specific plan will help you feel more dedicated and determined. It doesn’t even have to be a number on the scale – hoping to get your mile time under eight minutes is a goal too!

Don’t be extreme. Don’t decide you’re going to lose 50 pounds in six months or something similarly unrealistic. You’ll likely wind up discouraged when you don’t reach that goal and wind up backsliding. 

Do incorporate strength training. Adding weights and resistance training to your workouts won’t make you bulk up if you keep it in moderation. Instead, you’ll end up burning more fat and help tone your muscles.

Don’t rely on cardio. Lengthy cardio sessions are not a particularly beneficial method of getting fit; combine shorter cardio circuits with your strength training for a more effective workout. 

Do practice healthy eating habits. No matter how much you exercise, it’s your diet that will really help you see results. Adding more fruits and vegetables to your meals and cutting out added sugar and processed foods should make a difference. 

Don’t crash diet. Anything that eliminates an entire macro (protein, carbohydrates, or fats) is not a good long-term plan. Instead, focus on balance and healthier options. You also don’t want to completely deprive yourself of favorite foods, or you’ll be miserable throughout your engagement!