Fitting in a workout can be tough. Whether it’s work, kids or daily errands (or a combination of all three), it can be difficult to pencil in time for exercise with a busy schedule—let alone time to get ready and drive to the gym. However, you don’t need to hit the gym to get fit! There are so many activities that you can do in the comfort of your own home that will help you stay strong, active and moving.
Keeping active and exercising is not only beneficial to our own physical journeys to wellness, but it also helps boost our immune systems. Harvard Health attributes exercise with improving cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure, maintaining body weight and protecting against a variety of diseases by promoting good circulation.
So, skip the gym! You can stay active and get fit at home with these four activities:
1. Home Workouts
You’ve probably been seeing home workouts and activities everywhere! It can even get overwhelming to sift through all the options. If your own gym does not offer online classes, then Instagram might just become your best friend! Everyone from fitness influencers to celebrity trainers are offering free, online in-home workouts for people to do at home. Jeanette Jenkins, owner and founder of The Hollywood Trainer fitness club, has trained a variety of stars and posts great workouts on her Instagram.
You can also peruse the Fitness section right here on The Palm Weight Loss Blog for a plethora of at-home, no-equipment workouts. Check out these Seven Full Body Moves You Can Do at Home! >
2. Spring Cleaning
Make even the most mundane task an opportunity to move! Whether it’s cleaning up after dinner, walking the dog, taking the trash out, folding and putting laundry away, these are all ways to get off the couch and away from that television screen. Don’t be afraid to turn on some tunes and dance to the music while you clean, too! Not only will this ensure you are moving, but a clean space is a great asset for mental health as well. According to Psychology Today, people who maintain clean homes tend to be healthier and more active. It’s a win-win!
Need some tips? Get an organized kitchen with these five spring cleaning tips! >
3. Walking
Whether it’s a stroll on your work-from-home lunchbreak or a sunrise powerwalk, get up and go! According to the American Heart Association, walking positively impacts your health by lowering your chances of heart disease. It’s an easy activity that does not require specialty sneakers or gear. Bored? Go for a walk. Need some fresh air? Go for a walk. Talking on the phone? Walk and talk.
Want a more challenging workout? Add hiking to your list of spring activities and hit the trails. The different terrain will increase the intensity and the beautiful scenery will put you in a better mood. Reconnect with nature and spend some time hiking solo, with your pup or with the family for a fun and active adventure. Click here to learn more about the benefits of hiking. >
4. Gardening
Don’t have a green thumb? Kill every plant you’ve ever touched? No problem. You have all the time to harness that skill right now. Many home improvement stores sell plants to get your lush garden started. Not only will this get you moving outside, but gardening is also beneficial to health. According to the journal of Preventive Medicine Reports, gardening decreases stress, increases psychological wellbeing and cognitive function. It also increases our sense of community—something we all need! Not convinced on the many benefits of gardening? Check out these Six Reasons to Start a Garden While You’re Stuck at Home. >
If you’re feeling stressed, now is also the perfect time to do a little self care. Relax and unwind with these Five Ways to Practice Self Care at Home. >
*Always speak with a doctor before starting an exercise routine.
