The best at-home workouts don’t require any equipment, which is great because you can do them anywhere. In addition, they are short and effective, so you can get a great workout without spending hours at the gym. However, they require a high level of discipline and caution. In the last two years of the covid-19 pandemic, at home-workout routines have become increasingly popular.
Most gyms closed their doors, and people were looking for ways to stay in shape. The trend has continued despite the re-opening of gyms in many places. Here are five of the best at-home workouts that you can do with little investment or without any equipment:
1. Skipping Rope
Skipping rope is a great cardio workout you can do anywhere, indoors or outdoors. You don’t need expensive equipment and improvise a rope without buying it. Skipping rope is a great way to get your heart rate up and tone your muscles. You can also vary your workout by changing the skipping speed or by doing different kinds of jumps. For a real challenge, try skipping for 10 minutes non-stop. Also, set a target of how many jumping jacks you want to do in a minute, and try to reach it. The benefit of this workout is that you burn many calories in a short time.
2. Yoga
Yoga is an excellent workout for the mind and body, and there are plenty of benefits to doing it at home. You don’t have to worry about what you’re wearing or how you look. You can also take your time and focus on your breath and your form without feeling rushed. Besides, doing yoga at home can save money on gym memberships or class fees.
The beauty is that most wellness apps provide unmatched online yoga classes that would help you achieve your objectives. They have experienced coaches and nutritionists who recommend the best yoga moves and diets that meet your needs. Therefore, if you’re looking for a workout that’s both effective and convenient, yoga at home is worth considering.
3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT involves short bursts of high-intensity activity and rest periods. Studies have shown that HIIT enhances cardiovascular fitness and burns calories faster than traditional aerobic exercise. You can do HIIT workouts at home with minimal equipment and supervision by choosing your favorite activities. For example, you might sprint for 30 seconds, then rest for one minute before repeating the cycle. You can design a HIIT workout that fits your fitness level and goals.
4. Bodyweight Training
Bodyweight training is an excellent option for those new to working out at home, as it requires no equipment, and you can do it almost anywhere. Various bodyweight exercises can target different muscle groups, so mixing things up is important to avoid boredom and plateaus.
For example, beginners can start with bodyweight squats and push-ups, while more advanced exercisers can include plyometric movements such as burpees and jump squats. No matter your fitness level, bodyweight training is a great way to get moving and improve your overall health.
5. Flexibility Workout
If you want to improve your flexibility, this workout will help lengthen your muscles and improve your range of motion.
- Start by warming up with light cardio, such as a quick walk around the block or jumping jacks.
- Perform dynamic stretches involving movements, such as leg swings or arm circles. Also, be sure to target all of the major muscle groups, including the hamstrings, chest, and shoulders.
- Do light cardio for a few minutes to get your heart rate up. For example, you could jog in place or do some high knees.
- Choose 4-5 stretches and hold each for 30 seconds. Focus on deep breathing as you stretch to relax your muscles. To cool down, perform static stretches that you hold for a period, such as a lunge or a hamstring stretch. Finish up with light cardio such as a brief walk or gentle jogging.
The above workouts are a great way to stay in shape when you don’t have time for the gym. These workouts are flexible and efficiently executed in the comfort of your own home. So, don’t let a busy schedule get in the way of your fitness goals because you can achieve your fitness goals without breaking the bank.