If you’re like many people, you have probably spent much of the lockdown period searching for ways to maintain your mental and physical health. Spending months at home can be detrimental to one’s overall wellbeing, this is why keeping busy and working on self-growth and development are wise things to do. For some, this may mean setting up a home gym. While having a gym at home could be especially beneficial during quarantine, working out at home (home gym or not) has always been a great idea.
Besides ensuring that you’re not breaking any lockdown rules and safety protocols, exercising at home is typically more practical and convenient for people, even when not in lockdown. Whether you are a working mother, someone who has transitioned to working from home, or a student, you may not have the time or the luxury to go to the gym at least 3 times a week, not to mention the fact that gym subscriptions and personal trainers can get very costly. Luckily, the availability of online resources has made it possible to get an effective workout session at home.
Allot a Time Slot
The problem with working out from home is that you tend to lose motivation a few weeks in. Ironically, knowing that you can just get up and exercise at any given moment is what allows procrastination to set in. To prevent this from happening, you need to allocate time slots for your workouts. Choose the days you plan to stay active and try your best to stick to them no matter what.
Setting a timeframe for your workouts also helps. Many people like to work out before they start classes or work. On the other hand, some parents prefer to exercise after their children go to bed. For instance, if you choose to work out on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays at around 8 pm, make sure to avoid making plans that coincide with your workout schedule.
You Don’t Need Gym Equipment
Don’t worry if you never got to build your own gym. Although some machines are nice to have, you hardly need any professional equipment to work out from home. Many bodyweight exercises, like pushups, squats, and planks, can generate great results if you stay consistent. The key is to choose workouts that target several muscle groups simultaneously. This will help you build muscle and burn calories with a fewer number of exercises.
Whether you decide to use equipment or go gear-free, making sure that you maintain the correct form and position is quite important. Otherwise, you may acquire substantial injuries. Limited equipment, such as two different sets of weights and a mat, can also unlock a variety of options. Foam rollers and resistance bands can also come in handy, especially when it comes to pre-and post-workout regimens.
Use Technology
Technology has so much to offer when it comes to home exercises. From expensive, almost whimsical workout mirrors to affordable online training monthly subscriptions, fitness technology has become revolutionary. Many online training applications provide an extensive library of free home workouts and exercises.
Some systems allow you to enter your data, as well as basic information regarding your health and activity habits to provide you with a personalised plan. Professional coaches also offer 1-on-1 or group, online classes, if you’re looking for guidance. You can also browse through endless YouTube workout channels for new exercises, tips, and ready-made exercise plans if you need inspiration.
Dress For the Gym
Don’t take advantage of the fact that you’re working out at home and workout in your comfiest home-wear. When it’s time for your training session, get up and dress as if you were going to the gym. Changing into your gym clothes, shoes and the like can help you get motivated. If you want, you can get some yard work or heavy chores done after you dress up as a warm-up. This can help you stir up the needed energy for a good workout session.
Dedicate a Space
If you don’t have a home gym, dedicating a workout corner or spot can be a great idea. You don’t need to free up plenty of space for this purpose, simply having enough space to comfortably accommodate your mat and any equipment you have should be enough. Try to make sure that your exercise spot is not where you eat, watch TV, or sleep. This can help you focus and commit to your workout. Make sure to get rid of any distractions and keep your phone away if you tend to check it a lot. You can use wireless earphones or speakers if you enjoy listening to music while working out. Make sure to have your water bottle filled up so you don’t disrupt your session.
Set Realistic Goals
Before taking on a new project or starting something new, you must always have goals and expectations. This way, you will be able to measure your success and track your progress. Unfortunately many people seem to set unrealistic goals when it comes to health and fitness. This is why they lose hope and motivation early on in the process. Your best bet is to start slow and get to understand your body and its capabilities. Trust your body, and make sure to treat it with respect. Working out and building strength should be a gradual process; diving right in can cause your body to burn out, or may lead to muscle strains, pain or injury. Following a schedule and a plan that are sensible for your body can help you stay committed. Once you ease in, you can begin to increase the volume and intensity of your workout. You can record your reps to understand how you can improve. This can help you keep an eye on your progress. This documentation will also help keep you encouraged further down the line.
Whether you like to have all your personal amenities nearby, or feel uncomfortable exercising around strangers, you may find working out at home to be the most convenient and comfortable option. Being in the comfort of your home also doesn’t leave room for excuses. It doesn’t matter if rain is pounding down outside, or it’s too hot to leave the house, your home training sessions remain unaffected.