Home Workouts at a Glance

A year and a half of lockdowns and quarantines mean many people have dedicated a space in their homes for workouts. (For more on this topic, check out our blog on creating the perfect home gym.)

But a space is only as good as the know-how to go with it. That said, if you’re in a rut or in the mood to switch things up, look no further than these options that work for even the smallest spaces:

Strength Training

Resistance training is important to maintain a healthy metabolism, strengthen bones, and slow down the aging process — among other things.

No free weights or equipment? No problem. There are a host of bodyweight moves you can do to get and stay in shape. And if you have a basic set of weights, you can build from there. It’s recommended to train upper and body muscle groups each twice a week. Don’t forget rest days!

Yoga

It is said that yoga is meditation in motion. It has the power to quiet the mind and the body. And the best part is there are so many styles that can fit into your lifestyle and fitness levels. All you need is a mat, though some practices are suited for use of props and whatnot.

Barre

Barre is a combination of yoga, Pilates, and ballet, which translates to a heart-pumping workout. No barre at home? Don’t let that stop you. Most of the workouts can be performed at your countertop or with a chair. You’ll also need a mat and some other optional props like light hand weights. Get ready to sweat!

Cardio

If you have a stationary bike or treadmill, you can get in an intense workout without leaving your living room. And if you’re training for a race, you can find programs tailored to your specific goals.

Not everyone likes to feel tethered to a piece of equipment. If you don’t care for this type of workout, rest assured there are other ways to burn calories and have a good time. For example, do you enjoy moving to the rhythm? Some people enjoy dance because it doesn’t feel like exercise. Plus, there are so many types of dance to consider, such as salsa, merengue, jazz, modern, and hip-hop. Some lend themselves better to smaller spaces than others.

Whatever your passion, don’t forget to warm up and cool down. Doing this can help prevent injury and plus it feels good. Also, the internet has a wealth of information out there to guide you. Fitness professionals and media outlets have YouTube channels and blogs that can inspire and inform. Just be sure your form is correct, and you stay hydrated, especially during these warmer months. Last, don’t forget about the power of community. Zoom group classes can be a great way to stay connected and feel like you’re part of a larger community. Check social media and Eventbrite for listings in your area.

The type of workout matters less than the fact that you’re doing it, and consistently. Here’s to your health!