Home workouts are perfect for the everyday individual who doesn’t want the mess of a gym membership or doesn’t have room (or money) for bulky fitness equipment. They also destroy common fitness barriers such as lack of motivation and fear of working out in the presence of people you don’t know. But without those assets, how can you get an effective workout?
Easy, Effective Home Workouts:
Start with Cardio
You don’t always need a treadmill or elliptical machine. Use your neighborhood to go for a power walk, jog or bike ride. You can also turn-up the music in your bedroom/living room to do jumping jacks or aerobic dancing. For a change of scenery, move to a nearby park or walking trail.
Use Replacement Weights
If you want to lift weights but don’t have any traditional equipment, look for items in your home such as milk jugs, canned goods, bags of rice, bags of pet food or even bags of produce.
Try Mat-less Yoga
Yoga is an excellent exercise for building the core, stretching your body and practicing mindfulness. If you don’t have a mat, try using the carpet or a handy throw blanket.
Do a Variety of Bodyweight Exercises
Bodyweight exercises improve balance, flexibility and strength without any machinery or equipment. You simply rely on your body for an effective workout. These ideas from Greatist work everything from your legs and shoulders to your chest and abs.
Tend to Your Yard
If you have a front or back yard, why not consider yard work as a workout? Mowing the lawn, gardening and landscaping are all great at burning calories and keeping you active.
Watch Video Tutorials
Using either DVD’s or the web, use your television or computer to guide you in your workouts. A virtual trainer can help you correct your form, inspire you and give you fresh fitness ideas.
Take the Pressure off
Remember that fitness doesn’t look the same for everyone. We all have different skill levels, preferences and workouts we can access. If you can’t or don’t want to make it to the gym or invest in pricey equipment, don’t sweat it! All that matters is that you make time for activity and focus on physical, mental and emotional health/wellness.
