August Fitness Focus: Finish Summer Strong!

August is here aka the final stretch of summer. This is your month to reset, refocus, and finish the season strong. With just a few weeks left before fall routines kick in, August offers a golden window to boost your training, shake up your workouts and set the tone for the rest of the year.

1. Set a Mini Goal for the Month
Instead of waiting until September to restart your fitness journey, why not make August a goal-oriented month? Here are a few mini goals you can consider:

  • Run a 5K or increase your running distance

  • Complete 20 strength training sessions before Labor Day

  • Try a new class (Pilates, kickboxing, HIIT, etc.)

  • Commit to 10,000 steps a day

  • Improve flexibility with daily stretching or yoga

Setting a short-term goal helps you stay motivated and focused when distractions are high.

2. Revive Your Routine
If your workout plan feels stale, now’s the time to refresh it. August is ideal for:

  • Outdoor boot camps

  • Bike rides or trail runs

  • Beach or park workouts

  • Short, effective HIIT sessions (great for hot days)

Even small changes like taking your weights outside or swapping treadmill runs for track sprints can make a big mental difference.

3. Fuel Smarter in Late Summer
Farmer’s markets are bursting with in-season produce right now. Use August to fine-tune your nutrition and take advantage of:

  • Fresh berries (great in smoothies or on yogurt)

  • Tomatoes, cucumbers, and greens (perfect for hydration and nutrients)

  • Watermelon and citrus fruits for natural hydration

  • Lean grilled proteins for light summer meals

Keep meals light, colorful, and protein-rich to support recovery and energy levels.

4. Plan for Fall Now
As August winds down, begin thinking about your fall fitness goals. Want to train for a race? Build strength? Start working with a coach (wink-wink-nudge-nudge)? Starting now gives you a head start before the "September surge."

Write down your long-term goal and use August to build momentum. Even just 3-4 weeks of consistency now can make your fall season much more effective.

Final Thoughts: The August Advantage
August isn’t just the tail end of summer, it’s a transition month with powerful potential. Use it wisely. Stay active, train smart and enjoy the final weeks of warmth and sunshine. Whether you’re aiming for maintenance or making a comeback, your August efforts will pay off long past Labor Day.

Let’s finish summer strong!

Meena Sharif