Home workouts have been gaining popularity with no signs of slowing down. They bring flexibility and convenience to your exercise schedule to enforce a lasting habit. The variety of home exercise is growing with more apps, equipment, and virtual classes available at your fingertips. However, it can still come with distractions and challenges. We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you maximize your home workouts and build a successful habit.
Plan Your Space
Plan your workout area to be a more successful space. You don’t need a large home gym with state-of-the-art equipment to create an exercise-friendly environment. Begin by choosing a space with minimal distractions. Avoid high-traffic areas of the home and consider a corner or room with a door. Consider distractions near you, such as chores, work, or electronics. Determine the activities you plan to do and ensure adequate space around and above you. Treat the area like a workout destination rather than a storage spot. When you step foot in your workout zone, you’ll know it is for exercise, just as you would when walking inside a gym or studio.
Choose Your Equipment
Unlike at a gym with various equipment available, choosing the right exercise equipment for home workouts can be a tall task. Figuring out the right equipment to fit your needs, budget, and space is possible. Start with machines or gear that have multiple uses. Versatile equipment will stretch your dollar and keep your workout from getting boring or monotonous. Choose space-saving equipment such as resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells. This equipment has many uses without lining your wall with weights. If you are contemplating investing in larger machines, like a treadmill or bike, you’ll want to consider several things first. You can start by buying a used item at a significantly lower cost to see what equipment and features you will realistically use. Once you’re ready to purchase a new machine, you will know what you need to ensure a smart purchase. Try out and familiarize yourself with the equipment at the store before buying, if possible. The more comfortable you are with the machine and its programs, the more likely you will use it. Finally, don’t forget that you do not need equipment for a great workout. Bodyweight exercises are an effective component of cardio and strength workouts.
Stay Motivated
Finding motivation and consistency for exercise is difficult regardless of where you are. Choose activities that you find enjoyable. If you’re not sure of an activity that you like, choose something you enjoy to pair with your exercise, like a playlist, podcast, audiobook, or phone call with a friend. Pairing exercise with something you appreciate allows you to look forward to your exercise session rather than find any excuse to put it off. Have a specific plan for exercise as well as a plan b. The more specific you are, the more likely you are to complete it. Some days never go according to plan, so having an alternative can help keep you on track. Start with small steps and gradually build your routine. Nothing kills motivation like doing too much, too fast, and feeling defeated. Lastly, determine your accountability. Do you need to write down your workouts, cross them off on a calendar, or report to an exercise buddy? No matter how you hold yourself accountable, remember it always helps to have a little extra support.
Always consult with your physician before starting a new exercise program.
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