Mark Greene
While going to the gym might seem like the easiest way to get fit, not everyone has the time or energy to go. Gym memberships can be expensive and you may not live near one that’s worth going to. Perhaps you don’t have the time or budget to go to the gym regularly.Â
Gyms are great, but they’re not the only way to get fit. In fact, more and more people are staying home and getting fit on their own. It’s not even that difficult! For those curious, here are nine easy ways you can get fit at home.
1. Stand While You Work
If you work from home, you can get fit by making just a few adjustments to your current routine. Not only will standing help you burn calories, it’s also much better for your back!
While you don’t have to stand for the entire day, you can work towards burning calories and getting fit by making a conscious effort to stand more. Even if you work in an office, take five minutes every hour to stand up and take a brisk walk around the office. If you really want to commit, invest in a standing desk so you can stay standing for longer.
2. Follow an Online Exercise Class
There are lots of exercise classes that are available through the Internet. Many gyms offer online classes as part of your membership, but there are also people who make free exercise videos on YouTube!
With online classes, you’re free to change up your exercise routine as you want. Try yoga for a week or two, then switch to pilates. You can even find Zumba classes or core workouts online! Whatever you’re into, find a class you can follow online to motivate you to keep exercising.
3. Find a Workout App
If you tend to use your phone more than a computer, downloading a workout app can help you remember to exercise every day. Many apps send you reminders and encouraging notifications so that getting fit is more enjoyable. Some apps even have a place for you to track your meals and your workouts.
There are tons of home workout apps to choose from so you aren’t limited to certain activities. Don’t be afraid to try different apps before deciding on your favorite!
4. Jump Rope
Remember how popular jump rope was at recess when you were a kid? Well, it’s coming back! More and more adults are turning to jump rope routines that they can do in their living room or on their back porch.
Jump roping is a great cardio exercise that many people find more enjoyable than running. If you’re not someone who thinks running a mile or two is a fun way to spend your time, try turning on your favorite songs and jumping to them!
5. Buy a Home Gym
Home gym systems are a fairly new technology that more and more people are turning to. Lots of home gyms are compact enough to fit in a small room as long as you have space to move.Â
When it comes to a home gym, there are many systems to choose from. Smart systems like Tonal have a digital modern look whereas systems like Technogym have a more traditional look.
6. Start Stretching
Even something as simple as stretching every day can help you work towards getting fit. For those who spend most of their sitting or don’t get much exercise while working, stretching can alleviate muscle pain.
You can stretch from pretty much anywhere you want. Whether you’re at the office, in the kitchen, or even on a plane, you can find a way to stretch and help your muscles reset. While you don’t have to follow a specific routine, you should be able to find some simple stretching exercises online.
7. Do Some Laps on the Stairs
If your house has stairs, you already have a great exercise tool! Even just walking up and down a flight of stairs will help you get some cardio and improve your health. If you really want to push yourself, try running up and down.
Take your workout to the next level and add in some stairs-based workouts. A simple workout such as this one from the National Health Service in the UK is a great way to add some cardio to your day.
8. Try Jazzercise
Yes, this really does exist! If you love dancing but don’t want to take a traditional dance class, this is a great way to do so! Jazzercise is a fun combination of aerobic workouts, strength training, and dance moves. Think Zumba, but a bit more intense.Â
If you don’t like the thought of a more intense Zumba class, you can also try regular Zumba. Although it’s typically less intense and demanding, it will still help you burn calories and get fit. Once again, YouTube may be your new best friend as you can find plenty of free classes to do from your own living room.
9. Go for a Run
Not everyone likes running, but it’s still a great way to stay fit. Even just going for a short jog can help you get in shape without taking up too much of your time. Put in your headphones and listen to your favorite playlist or podcast as you take a lap around the neighborhood.
Setting a goal for yourself can keep you motivated to go outside even as the temperatures begin to drop. Maybe you want to run a local 5K. Maybe you want to run a 7-minute mile. Whatever your goal, make sure it’s something that will encourage you to keep running rather than something that seems unattainable.
Get Creative
The great news is that there’s no one correct way to get fit at home. You can exercise however you want and if you get bored, change it up! There’s no shame in changing your routine just because you no longer like it. In fact, switching it up can keep you motivated to keep working!
