If there’s anything we’ve learned over the past year in quarantine, it’s how to get creative and take advantage of what you have at home. However, you might be running out of ideas on how to exercise during lockdown while gyms are closed. Here are a few ways to stay motivated and creative in your workout routines, even if you don’t have any equipment!
1. Make a schedule each week
To avoid getting bored of doing the same workout everyday, try to vary what types of exercises you’re doing during the week. For example, you can try to have 1 outdoor run or bike, 1 yoga session, 2 strength building workouts, and/or 2 cardio workouts.
2. Workout with a friend
Make your workouts more interesting with a roommate, or you can video call someone to work out together virtually. You can motivate each other and help each other stay on track to reach your fitness goals while staying COVID-safe!
3. Take advantage of your space
It’s okay if you don’t have a huge basement or space to workout, use what you have and make it work for you! You can even make space in your bedroom by pushing furniture to the side, or you can do static exercises that don’t require a lot of movement (such as planks, wall sits, etc). Don’t be afraid to get creative!
4. Find inspiration on YouTube
There are so many different types of workouts you can try. They range in difficulty, length, required equipment, and type, but you’re bound to find something for you! Try searching the following keywords to draw inspiration: HIIT (high intensity interval training), plyometrics, full-body, dance workout, yoga, pilates, no-noise, low impact, knee-friendly, etc.
The workouts put out by these fitness influencers may not be scientifically proven or certified to give you a specific outcome, but they certainly get you moving and sweating!
To get you started, here are some workout videos to check out:
6 Pack Abs for Beginners (THENX) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p8EBPVZ2Iw
15 Minute Full-Body HIIT (Natacha Oceane) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LlT7MSKJBc
Intense 10 Minute Lower Body (ScottHermanFitness) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erKJOb51bCI
US Airforce Fitness Challenge (MattDoesFitness) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yd2GI3PeF8
5. Find the equipment that’s right for you
Many exercises can be done with zero equipment; however, if you are looking to invest in your fitness, there are definitely a few key items that can benefit your workouts and last a long time! All you need to start out is a yoga mat. If you want to get more advanced, you can purchase some resistance bands, a stability ball (yoga ball), medicine ball(s), and maybe even a jump rope (if you have the ceiling space for it).
You don’t need equipment to have a productive workout. You can use everyday household objects as well. For example, try using a towel under your feet or hands to act as sliders on a hardwood or tile surface.
Good luck and happy working out! 🏋️♀️ 🏋️♂️ 💪