Top tips to get summer ready

Get fitness ready

If the past few months have been a mental and physical drain, then you’re not alone, but the good news is as the warmer weather arrives, so do more daylight hours, helping you kickstart a plan to get more active. Whether you like a gentle walk on the beach or weight-training in the gym, no goal is too big or small; the most important aspect is to give something physical a crack. You’ll be amazed at how little it takes to improve the way you feel and the more you do it, the more natural it will become.

Tip 1

Exercising outdoors is a known mood-booster, but if the weather is a bit patchy, getting active indoors can be just as beneficial. You don’t need a complete home gym to work out. A great- value exercise mat, inflatable gym ball with base and strap, alongside some handweights will give you plenty of options for working up a sweat.

Tip 2

Involving others will help keep your active goals on track. Why not grab the family and head out for an afternoon of biking or scootering, discovering new areas around your local neighbourhood? Don’t forget the helmets so everyone stays safe. Or if you’ve got a day at the beach planned, make sure you take a cricket set or boogie board along for extra reasons to get moving.

Tip 3

There is nothing like new items to motivate your fitness goals, so start by kitting yourself out. Style, comfort and low prices are the right fit for anyone getting active. Create an active-wear capsule wardrobe made up of leggings, tees, singlets, shorts and shoes, then you’ll be covered no matter what activity you choose on a particular day. Alongside the usual selection, the all-new Active Intent women’s extended size range is inclusive up to size 28.

Tip 4

People who have fun while being active stick to their fitness goals much longer than those who exercise because they think they must, so it’s important to find the activity that makes you happy.

Get BBQ season ready

Kiwis love their backyard barbecues! More than half of us consider the barbecue an essential household appliance and most of us say they are the hub when it comes to socialising. With options for everyone, here’s how to make sure you’re kitted out for great value grilling this summer.

Tip 1

To find the perfect barbecue for you and your needs, consider things like size, the number of burners and what type of fuel it uses. With value really adding the sizzle, look for a price tag that’s right for your budget, no matter how big or small.

Tip 2

The right tools can make all the difference. A few standout savers like tongs, spatulas and scrapers will have you cooking like a pro for next to nothing. And don’t forget the brushes for cleaning and a cover for protection from the weather.

Tip 3

Consider pairing your main barbecue with one that fits a different need – like a smaller portable option for camping or a day at the beach, maybe a smoker for the catch of the day or even a pizza oven for fast, family feasts.

Get your bedroom summer ready

A bedroom is one of the spaces in the home that you spend the most time in. It’s a room for relaxing and recharging, so it should be a place you love. With a few value updates, you can transform any bedroom with ease and style, all while staying on budget.

Tip 1

When did you last update your duvet inner? A fresh new item of key bedding can mean a good night’s sleep can be more about comfort and less about cost. Having a duvet inner weighted to suit the warmer season can make a big difference to your sleep cycle.

Tip 2

If you want to make a big impact quickly, simply change your duvet cover. Even just refreshing an accent colour in the bedroom will instantly make over the space and bring home savings too, while crisp white is a timeless classic that can be accessorised with ease.

Tip 3

We change furniture much less than we do decor items, so keep key bedroom pieces simple and neutral. This will give you the most versatility for the future as they can be instantly updated with accessories without breaking the bank.

Tip 4

When did you last refresh your pillows? Ideally you should purchase new ones every one or two years to ensure they’re supportive, clean and free from allergens.

Get outdoor dining ready

It wouldn’t be a Kiwi summer without backyard barbecues shared with friends and family. Having the right set-up for your outdoor dining can really make a difference. With a few key value items, you’ll be good to go whatever the occasion.

Tip 1

Wooden serving boards are a must-have. Not only do they look great, but they’re practical when it comes to presenting platters and other snacks outdoors.

Tip 2

Choosing a colour theme for your dinnerware is an easy way to add smart style. Then add elegant glassware and drink dispensers to complete your look.

Get summer gardening ready

There’s nothing better than serving up food to your family that you’ve grown yourself. You don’t need a lot of space or green-thumb know-how to get a garden up and running. All it takes is some time and a few low-cost items. Before you know it, you’ll be harvesting home-grown items for everyone to enjoy.

Tip 1

If you’re setting up your first garden, you’ll need some bargain basics like a simple garden bed frame, along with tools like a fork and spade so you can get the preparation right.

Tip 2

Set a total budget for your spring garden, whether you’re starting from scratch or renewing for the season.

Tip 3

Start your planting with vege seedlings and herbs which you can use in healthy meals. This will mean fewer trips to the supermarket and less buying out of season, which is great for your bank balance and better for the planet.

Tip 4

Still not sure what to grow? You can make some great savings by finding recipes that you’d like to try then grabbing some seeds or seedings of some ingredients you’ll need to make them. In a few weeks’ time you’ll be cooking from your own garden.

Tip 5

The best vege picks for spring are the ones that set you up for supply in the coming months. With forward planning, you’ll soon be saving heaps.

For more ideas to get summer ready visit The Warehouse.