Can you tone up in 2 weeks?

 Do This Everyday To Lose Weight | 2 Weeks Shred Challenge

Maybe your New Year's resolution was to “exercise more” and it's since been overshadowed by other more pressing matters (say, for example, your Netflix queue), but with summer right around the corner most of us are starting to think about how we can tap back into those fitness goals. Don't worry, there's still time to get into shape quickly and safely. We spoke with Gino Caccavale, trainer to celebs like Carmen Electra and creator of the Rezist workout, and asked him for a fitness plan for procrastinators. 

Turns out, two weeks is plenty of time to play catch up—in fact, he says you can expect to tone up and drop four to six pounds by following this plan.

 Click through the slideshow to find out how you can look (and feel) amazing by Memorial Day! 

 

Photo courtesy of Wee Khim for Style Singapore

Caccavale suggests exercising for at least 40 minutes a day for the 14 days you have to get toned. “Alternate between resistance training and cardio [on each day],” he says. Common forms of cardio are running, jump roping, or spinning, while resistance training (also called strength training) can consist of anything from crunches to lifting weights—he shares some of his favorite moves ahead.

On days when you’re focusing on cardio, squeeze in a quick ab workout to maximize your results.

When it comes to exercise, Caccavale says to make sure you’re doing multi-joint movements. “Multi-joint movements work your upper body, lower body, and core simultaneously,” he says. “This way, you’ll build as well as burn.” Keep clicking to see four of his favorite workouts. 

Reps: Three sets of 15, 12, and 10.

Click here to see how to do a squat, curl, and overhead press.

Reps: Three sets of 15, 12, and 10.

Click here to see how to do a dumbbell push up and row.

Reps: Three sets of 15, 12, and 19.

Click here to see how to do a rear lunge with side lateral raise.

Reps: Two sets of 20 reps

Click here to see how to do a burpee.

 

1. No complex carbs after 3 p.m., period. This includes pasta, rice, and breads.

2. Eliminate artificial sweeteners. This means saying goodbye to sodas and Splenda. On the plus side, you may feel more energized.

3. No meals after 8 p.m., no matter what.

4. Eliminate all beverages other than water or coffee.

5. Never skip breakfast. Caccavale says this will boost your metabolism!

Remember—the goal of this plan is to help you feel fit, not necessarily to drop a bunch of pounds quickly. After two weeks, you can cut back the exercise to just three or four times a week, but keep following the diet rules to maintain a healthy lifestyle.