Your time is a very valuable and a limited resource! If heading out to the gym just doesn't seem to fit into your schedule, why not try exercising at home? Some of the benefits include:
1. Saves Time
2. Saves Money
3. It's more convenient
4. It's more private
5. There is no waiting in line
If you are saying to yourself, "I don't have any equipment to work out with," here are some ideas to get you started.
Why not Walk? – Put on some music and walk around your house. If you have a flight of stairs, go up and down them a few times.
Do Jumping Jacks. – Everyone remembers doing jumping jacks as a kid. They are a quick way to get in some aerobic exercise.
Do pushups. – Whether on your knees or against the counter/wall, pushups are a great way to build arm strength. Do them in the kitchen while you wait for the water to boil or your cup of coffee to brew.
Work your core – Doing regular abdominal exercises is a great way to alleviate back pain, improve posture and balance. Daily tasks such as carrying groceries and walking up a flight of stairs will be easier.
Jog in Place. – Jogging is a great workout for your heart. Try jogging through commercial breaks or through your favorite song.
How about Squats? – Squats help to build strength in your lower body and core muscles, improve balance, posture and mobility. Tack them on to an activity you already do daily. For instance, every time you use the restroom, do 10 squats. In a typical day, that could be an extra 50 squats per day!
Try Light Weightlifting. – You don't need to buy weights! Just use cans of vegetables, water bottles or laundry detergent jugs. Lighter weights allow you to concentrate on your form and decrease your risk for injury.
Just Dance. – Who doesn't like to dance? You don't have to be good at it to reap the benefits. Dancing is a great exercise for your heart and lungs. It improves coordination, agility, flexibility, muscle tone and aerobic fitness. Not only that, but it can improve your mood as well.
Whether you are looking to reduce your weight, lower your risk of disease or destress, physical activity can help and being able to do it in the comfort of your own home could be the answer!
Put it into practice:
What are some ideas you can come up with to begin an exercise routine at home?
What are some ideas you can come up with to begin an exercise routine at home?
References:
"Tips for Increasing Physical Activity." ChooseMyPlate, https://www.choosemyplate.gov/resources/physical-activity-tips
"Physical Activity Around the House." www.heart.org, https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/advocate/federal-priorities/physical-activity/physical-activity-around-the-house
© inHealth Medical Services, Inc. 2020