It’s that time of the year again where the phrase “summer body” gets thrown around a lot.

And if you’re like me, you’re tired of hearing about it. Fitness centres and organic diets are expensive, and realistically unattainable (especially when it’s ice cream and sangria season). Luckily for you, this guide will give you some tips and tricks on how to get fit this summer, without a crazy price tag. While we were lucky enough to train with Khloé Kardashian’s favourite fitness instructor, he doesn’t come cheap. Here are some more affordable options for getting fit this summer! 

Food Tips

​When the sun comes out, all I want is a cold beer and a greasy plate of nachos on a patio. The reality is, that kind of diet will catch up to you – fast. If you’re living downtown and still want to spend the day outside without the extra calories, I’ve got the spot for you.

​District Eatery, (303 King St West) is a healthy tapas bar that has a menu full or cocktails and shareables that will make your inner fitness junkie scream. What discourages most of us from eating healthy is that a salad just doesn’t taste as good as a burger – no matter how hard it tries. District Eatery puts a healthy spin of some of your favourite bar foods. Try their naan bread nachos, mixed berry grilled cheese or chicken kaarage salad! Trying to skip the beer gut this summer? Opt in for one of their power teas, the healthiest cocktail in the city. Their daily made teas are packed with protein, vitamins, minerals (and a kick of liquor)!

Work Out

​I don’t know about you guys, but I certainly don’t have money to spend on fancy workout classes. Luckily the city has plenty of cheap options to will make you sweat even if you’re on a tight budget.

​If you’re looking to lose weight, cardio is your new best friend. Let’s be honest though, the treadmill is boring and running outside can be discouraging. Get that cardio in without the hefty price of a gym membership – at the pool! Go to the closest community centre with a pools, and check out the drop in lane swimming, it’s the perfect place to get in those laps. Swimming is really great cardio, and super refreshing for the summer.

​Are you one of those people that needs a stricter regimen to work out? Check out Emma Troupe’s fitness plans! This Toronto fitness guru has a special student bundle at the low cost of only $39! The bundle includes 8 weeks of workouts, full body training, a holistic recipe e-book and you get to be added to a Facebook group where you can track your progress with other users.

Lifestyle

​Like everything else in Toronto, groceries are expensive. If you’re living on a tight budget, spending money on organic produce and expensive protein bars will cost you a whole paycheck. Instead of selling your soul for protein powder and organic lemons, check out the fruit markets on Spadina and in Kensington Market (College and Augusta). You can get some really cheap produce that is not only good for you, but half the price of regular grocery stores!

​Another trick to help you get fit this summer is walking! I know what you’re thinking – wow such a unique idea thank you for the tip. But to really amp up the challenge, skip buying a metro pass this month! See how you can handle having to walk everywhere. Also, you can save a nice $140.

For more health and fitness content, check out our fitness expert Karla Gillis on Instagram or online!