That time of year approaches … when the sun shines brightest, parades celebrate the onset of summer, and the beaches and pools open. It all signifies just one thing — it’s swimsuit season.

And no matter how hard you exercised this past winter, chances are the first time you walk outside in a swimsuit will be a little uncomfortable. Fortunately, there’s still time to give yourself that extra boost of confidence for the stroll down the beach.

Have you ever noticed how celebrities always look just a bit extra toned and polished for award shows and premiere events? That’s because if you maintain a regular workout, there are some simple exercises you can do to accentuate the results for a day. For your days in the sun, try these tricks before heading to the beach.

• Show Off Those Arms: Who cares if you don’t have a six-pack in your abs yet? Everyone’s going to be looking at your arms. A few repetitions of arm curls with a weight three to five pounds heavier than you normally use will make those muscles pop out and give you the visible definition you’ve always known was possible.
• Killer Thighs The same principle of a little extra work to an already lean body can be applied to your legs as well. You’re pretty comfortable with your calves by now, as it’s been short skirt season for a while. Spend an extra couple of minutes at the squat machine and the whole world will notice all the work you’ve been putting in.
• Sunscreen: No matter how cliché it’s become, never ever go outside without sunscreen. This is even more important when you’re in your swimsuit. Not only because you’ll be directly in the sun, but also because sensitive areas such as your shoulders and thighs will be exposed to ultraviolet rays. If you think back to every time you’ve been sunburned, it most likely has struck one of these areas. The level of SPF you use depends on your skin type. Again, this comes down to knowing your body. My Italian and Greek friends tend to use a lower SPF level, while my fair-skinned and freckled friends jokingly refer to their quest to find the highest SPF available, a.k.a. SPF Irish.
• Glowing Skin: Sorry, this isn’t where I tell you to visit a tanning bed to “prep” for the sun. This is, however, the part where I remind you about the benefits of eating fresh fruits. For a truly sun-kissed face, get it from the inside out. One of my favorite parts of summer is the fresh apples, oranges, strawberries, grapes and watermelon. They’re sweet, cold and the perfect complement to a new swimsuit.

It’s natural to feel a little awkward lying out at the pool in nothing but a swimsuit after you’ve been covered up in jeans and sweaters all winter. The important thing to remember is that you deserve to sit out in the sun, chat with your girlfriends and enjoy the summer months. Embrace your body and let the fresh air float across your skin.