Summer’s in a hurry to get here—which probably means you’re in a hurry to look your best. Getting in shape for summer is about more than just looks. If you’re not in summer-shape, playing volleyball on the beach is going to wear you out!
To be able to look good and feel good this summer, you need to know how to get in shape.
We rounded up these shortcuts to getting shredded so you can show off a good look and serious muscle for any big events this summer.
5 Shortcuts to Get Shredded Fast
Disclaimer: Your body’s potential might be unlimited, but transformation takes time. Getting shredded is about sculpting a mostly-fit body. Significant weight loss or getting in shape after years of sedentary living are going to take longer and require different strategies! Always consult a doctor before beginning a new workout regime.
Shortcut 1: Add Weights to Standard Exercises
When you perform many sets using lighter weights, you build more endurance than muscle. So, if you want to get a shredded look, opt for heavier weights and fewer sets. This will also raise your metabolism. The best exercises to perform with heavier weights to bulk up your physique fast include:
- Squats
- Lat Pulldowns
- Drag Curls
- Leg Presses
- Standing Calf Raises
- Seated Triceps Presses
Many other standard weighted exercises are useful for getting ripped quickly, too. The key is simply to go for heavier weights (just not so heavy you can’t perform the exercises with proper form).
Shortcut 2: Cut Back on Cardio to Beef Up Your Weight Training
Cardio is great for shedding weight and building up endurance, but it won’t do much in a short period of time for a ripped look. A fast chiseled look is all about getting your muscles to swell and to look defined. That’s why you need to lift heavier weights. It’s also why you need to lift those weights more often.
To get a shredded look in a short period of time, schedule a few weeks of 3-4 days of lifting and circuit training. Keep cardio to once a week or add short bursts of intense cardio intervals into your weight lifting routine.
Shortcut 3: Don’t Workout Within 3 Days of Your Shredded Show-Off Time
If you have a specific event you want to show off a shredded body at (who doesn’t?) then plan to stop working out 3 days in advance. That might sound weird, but if bursting muscles is what you want to boast, you can’t have your muscles in their breakdown phase. This is also true if you know you’re going to be really active one day, like at an all-day beach volleyball tournament. Your muscles break down to rebuild during the day or two after your workout, so allot time for recovery.
Shortcut 4: Reduce Your Sugars By Switching from Fruit to Veggies
When you’re bulking up, you want to cut back on sugars and unnecessary carbs. Beyond avoiding grains, it’s also important to avoid sugars during the weeks you’re trying to get ripped fast. Sugars hide out in fruits naturally. Switch to veggies in order to get natural vitamins and minerals without all of the sugar.
Be sure to also educate yourself on the macronutrients and ratios needed to get a ripped physique. Lean protein and fats, for example, are important during this phase.
Shortcut 5: Do Whatever You Can to Drink More Water
Many people think that if they cut back on water, they’ll cut out water weight and bloating. Actually, dehydration causes water retention and bloating over time. It’s best to stay thoroughly hydrated instead. Drink lemon water for a little more flavor. If you have a big shred show-off event, drink less on that day because your body won’t have time to bloat but will look more taut temporarily.
Get Shredded for the Long Haul
The best way to get a real shredded look is to actually gain muscle mass. That does take time, but it’s worth it in the long haul. Use the above tips to get a look you can show off temporarily—and then use this FREE Muscle Mass Guide to beef up for good.
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