Over the weekend some friends of mine were chatting about the countdown till summer; we have about 12 weeks before the season has its unofficial start in Bermuda at the end of May.

This is the time we usually start thinking about preparing our beach bodies but, let’s clarify something:if you're wearing a bikini or swimsuit then you already have a ’beach body’. Despite that, there's nothing wrong with setting a wellness goal to give incentive ahead of the summer.

Check out some simple lifestyle tips to help you get that healthy summer body.

1. Stretch loads

When you're thinking about getting your body prepared for a swimsuit, how or how much you stretch probably isn't on your mind but an injury could sideline your goals. The power of stretching is underrated and oftentimes skipped all together. As we age, muscle elasticity decreases which can lead to aches, pain and injury.

That's why it's so important to adopt a regular stretching routine that targets the muscles you use the most such as those in your legs and buttocks. Try and devote at least a half-hour of static stretching, making sure to hold each stretch for about 30 seconds.

2. Take a lunch box

If you're working towards losing weight, consider cutting back on restaurant foods. It is harder to lose weight if you are eating out on a daily basis. Studies have shown that people who rely on restaurant lunches shed fewer pounds than people who bring in food from home. Try to pack your lunch and you'll save calories and cash.

3. Start ’fit Fridays’

The end of the week often means meeting for happy hour – but exercising together can be fun too. Join a friend after work. It doesn't have to be on a Friday though, any day will do. Even if you do go out after your workout, you'll be in a healthy mindset and ready to make healthy choices that are more in line with your summer body quest.

4. Pump the jams

Select a new playlist making sure that you only add songs that give you energy. A strong beat can help you pick up the pace of your workout routine.

5. Get your rest

Staying up late at night can cause many cravings, as does getting too little sleep. Research has found it leads carbohydrate cravings to rise by 50 per cent. If you tend to crave processed foods at night – like cookies, chips and pizza – it may be because you are staying up too late. The more tired you feel, the stronger those cravings are going to be because your body is literally trying to get more energy. To reduce cravings and help you feel recharged in the morning, try getting at least seven hours of sleep.

6. Grab the protein

To help your muscles recover after a hard workout, reach for a snack that contains protein. You need between 15 and 25 grams to help your muscles repair and build. Look for high protein and low sugar items such as Greek yoghurt, eggs, lean meats and fish.

7. Drink water

Drink water before each meal. You'll stay hydrated as Bermuda warms up, which can make exercise feel easier. Drinking a couple cups of water before eating can also fill you up making you more likely to eat less.

While all these tips can assist in giving you a healthier and leaner body, make sure you still take whatever body that you have to the beach – all bodies are beach bodies! Put on that bathing suit and B-Active For Life.

Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook