Fitness tips for future brides

Getting ready to shed the pounds to look good in your gown? If you are one of the many brides-to-be preparing to walk down the aisle this spring, put these fitness tips at the top of your bridal list as you get ready for your big day!

Wedding season is upon us! Within the next few months, thousands of couples will say “I do,” with the most tying the knot in June, according to the National Association of Wedding Ministers. And before they get all dressed in white, many brides hit the gym to slim down and look even more gorgeous in their gowns – and in all of those pictures.

If you are a buff bride in training, here are some fitness tips to take down the aisle.

PICK A PLAN YOU CAN KEEP

Just like any workout regime, you don’t want to take off more than you can chew. So if you have never been much of a stickler about exercising, do not expect that you will suddenly find the motivation to hit the gym on a daily basis — especially since all of that planning for your big day will keep you as busy as ever. Select a workout that suits your schedule. If you need an extra kick, hire a personal trainer or sign up for a bridal bootcamp, like Cynthia Conde’s bridal bootcamp — or for a home workout, stock up on DVDs from Buff Brides.

PLAN YOUR FITNESS LIKE YOU PLAN YOUR WEDDING

You are likely not planning your wedding in a short amount of time, so don’t expect to get fit quick, either. Give yourself as much time as possible to get ready for your wedding day. Fitness trainers say that the biggest mistakes brides make is overtraining too close to their wedding day, which can easily lead to injury or unnecessary stress. Be realistic: Give yourself at least two months to whip yourself into shape, and shoot to shed about a pound per week.

LET YOUR DRESS DICTATE YOUR WORKOUTS

Aside from the cake, your wedding dress will be the most delicious confection at the reception. So highlight all of its beautiful features by structuring your workout routines around your wedding gown. Let your dress decide your workouts.

For example, if your dress is a halter or strapless, work on your shoulders with push ups. If your fairy tale wedding gown is backless, hit the rowing machine to define your back muscles and shoulders.

Just think, if you let your wedding dress dictate your workouts, you won’t have to obsess over your entire body.

PERFECT YOUR POSTURE

You are inevitably bound to look beautiful on your wedding day. But you will be an even more stunning bride when you are standing tall. Pilates is a simple way to get a taut torso and ramrod straight spine. Regular Pilates workouts will result in you walking tall and gracefully with your shoulders down and back and your tummy tight. Check to see if your gym offers Pilates, or check your local listings to find a studio near you.

No time to slim down? Don’t sweat it. Just relish this amazing time in your life and enjoy your engagement. If you are happy and stress-free on your wedding day, you will be a blissful bride — no matter your size.

Want more scoop on all things weddings? Check out SheKnows.com Wedding Channel!