what's the ideal body type for summer?

What's the ideal body for summer?  Short answer: there isn't one.

As spring quickly approaches, it seems as though people are eager to shed the extra pounds they've gained during the winter and begin setting their sights on swimsuit season and working towards their "beach body", where people will strive to get to their ideal body to look their best.  

Since it's summer, you might start seeing posts or articles popping up that mention the steps to achieve your perfect summer body, what diets you should use, and how much you should tan. There are even tips on how to look less bloated on the beach, so your stomach looks as flat and acceptable as possible. 


As publications push us to live out our Baywatch fantasies, there shouldn't be this much pressure in trying to have the "perfect body". But, unfortunately, these articles only add an extra level of self-consciousness that might not have been on everyone's radar.  Is all this effort essential to look presentable in a bathing suit?  Is my body good enough?

With that said, if you like the challenge and enjoy setting fitness goals for yourself, then reaching your "beach body" goal can be an excellent way to keep a fitness routine and stay motivated.  But for everyone else who's looking for some fun in the sun, just know that you shouldn't feel intimidated or feel the pressure of needing to look a certain way.
 
While swimsuit season often means more skin and body exposure, there shouldn't be this expectation on what a "beach body" should really look like.

While on a beach or at a public pool, it's easy to fall down the rabbit hole by comparing your physical appearance to other people and pointing out the areas you believe are lacking.

"Why can't I be toned and tanned like that person?" You may ask yourself.
"Why can't I have a tight six-pack and bulging muscles?"

While some people work towards trimming belly fat and gaining tight abs for the hotter months of the year, we should also promote body comfortability, no matter what your body type is.

Be yourself, have fun in the sun, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen and just let loose.  Summer is only three months, so take advantage of it by living your best self.  Stop worrying about having the perfect summer body and letting the term "beach body" seem like something you must have.  Every body is a summer body as there's no one way to look at the beach.