11 Ways to Get Fit This Spring ...

There are plenty of ways to get fit before the bikini season hits us like a ton of bricks. This past winter was a cold one and boy did I make it warmer with a few extra pounds for insulation. Chances are, a few people out there did the same and are ready to get rid of that spare tire hanging orotund our gut, or worse, our thighs. These simple ways to get fit this spring will help all us girls have our best bikini season ever. The great part about this is most these ways to get fit are fun and can be done in your own home!

1. YouTube

I know, it is pretty surprising to see YouTube on a list of ways to get fit. Watching adorable cats and epic fails may sound counterintuitive to getting fit and that's because it is. Thankfully, that is not all YouTube has to offer. Fitness gurus from Jillian Michaels to Cassey Ho have free workouts on YouTube that range from 5-minutes in length to over an hour of sweat inducing workout goodness. Even the infamous P90X system is now available on YouTube for free!

2. Running

When it comes to melting those pounds away, running is one of the quickest ways to do it. Everyone hates running at first, but run through your first mile and you just might fall for it the way I did. The best way to get in the running spirit is by signing up for a race in the near future and start training. This is sure to help your abs, arms, legs and bum!

3. Pilates

If you are wanting to get that iconic flat ab look, nothing will do it faster and better than Pilates. This is because the breathing system Pilates uses will keep your core tight the entire class long. For a super intense workout that will help stretch those muscles while you tone them, try the Pilates reformer. This is seriously the best workout device ever created.

4. Swimming

Swimming is a massive workout that is not hard on joints and works the entire body at once. This is also an activity that can get you tan while you work. Swimming in natural waters like the ocean or a lake will burn more calories because you are swimming with or against a current.

5. Ballet

Ballet has hit the top of the workout charts big time. As a former ballet dancer I can completely see why. When training, I was in the best shape of my life complete with a cellulite-free bum, six pack abs, and arms that could bench twice my weight. Ballet dancers are athletes in tutus. This is a workout that will leave you massively toned, flexible, and bulk free!

6. Yoga

This year is supposed to be yoga's most popular year yet. Between hot yoga, SUP yoga, beach yoga, and all the other variants, there are plenty of ways to mix-up that drab yoga routine of 2013. Yoga will also help tone and get you some fantastic wiggle-free arms. My favorite way to do yoga is after a run and on my cardio-free days. This has massively helped me jump-start that toning and improve race times!

7. Walking

Getting our steps in every day is a super important part of staying healthy. Now that the weather is starting to get better in most areas, we can start walking outdoors a bit more. Health experts recommend walking between 10,000 and 12,000 steps per day. If you really want to kick that weight-loss up a notch, try walking 15,000 steps per day.

8. Kettlebells

Kettlebells are my new best friend. So much so that my mom just got one and is using it to get back in the workout swing. Pun intended. Kettlebells are great for giving you a cardio workout along with a great toning session. For those who have not used a kettlebell before or do not lift weights often, start small with a 5-8 pounder. Also be sure to get the form down. There are tons of great YouTube how-to's that talk all about form and quite a few places that offer kettlebell classes to help you train as well.

9. Cycling

Get ready for a massive, sweaty, intense workout when you start your cycling class. This is one that will burn some serious calories and get your legs ready for a high-speed bike chase. Organizations like SoulCycle have picked up in popularity big time. If you have one in your area, I definitely recommend trying it out.

10. SUP

In case you are like me as of a week ago and have no idea what SUP stands for, it is Stand Up Paddleboarding. I know, the abbreviation is a bit silly, but this is a great workout. This works your core, legs, bum, and arms. If you really want to kick it up, try mixing this with surfing. Just don't be like me and SUP surf more than you can handle have to be rescued by a local. Oh, that was an embarrassing and hilarious day.

11. Hiking

If you live in an area where hiking is common, please oh please take a hike or two for me. Hiking is a wonderful workout that gets you right in the center of nature. Seriously, those of you who have pretty hills and mountains to hike are the luckiest people ever. Take advantage of this beautiful and wonderful workout for those of us who cannot.

With all these workout options, there is bound to be one that helps you get bikini ready this season. What are some of your favorite ways to get fit? I am always looking for new workouts and would love to try-out some of your go-to's!