L ast year, I moved into a neighborhood with no local gym. While surrounded by yoga studios and CrossFit gyms (the latter of which I tried and limped away from), there's no general cardio-and-weight gym.
Reluctantly, I signed up for GaiamTV, an online service strongly advocated by several of my friends. Fast forward about six months later, and I'm a convert. In fact, if we moved back into an area with a gym, I would probably stick with working out at home.
Fitness is so important to each and every one of us. Here are my tips on how to work out at home successfully.
Timing is everything. Choosing the best time to go to the gym requires a bit of planning you want to go with a time that works with your schedule, as well as one that works with your energy level; for example, if I work out in the evening, I find it hard to sleep. You have your own rhythms, but when working out at home, you've got more variables maybe you want an empty house to enjoy, or maybe you're like me and don't want your neighbor wondering why the hell you're jumping around.
Create your space. You must have a safe, defined space to do your workout; I don't want you tripping on a coffee table and ending up on the floor (not that I have ever done that… ). Besides, having a dedicated workout space with plenty of room will give you the confidence to hit those power moves. And you don't want anyone else tripping on your weights or sliding on your sweaty yoga mat.
Get equipped. Speaking of equipment, you don't need much. But you should have the basics. Here's my short list of suggestions:
- stretch bands (you can get them with or without handles on the ends these are great for your cool-down) weights (just get a small, simple set to start with) yoga mat (not just for yoga, but for being on hands/knees or doing crunches on floor) water bottle (something with a lid, in case you knock it over)
Pretend that somebody is watching. Gyms can be intimidating sometimes because people are watching you. Meh. Working out at home is the opposite problem you've got nobody to spot you, or help check your form, or keep you to task. So, pretend like someone IS there. Create a weekly schedule and stick to it. Track your progress make it like a game, if you like. You could even get a workout buddy. Oh, and if you're using workout videos, don't be afraid to pause, rewind, or run over to the mirror to check your form.
Take a live class now and then. Just because you're now a workout-at-home superstar doesn't mean you need to be come a recluse; a live class now and then can be great to check your form or get a little bit of additional hands-on instruction.
Dress properly. Please do not think I am advocating that you must be dressed head-to-toe in form-fitting lycra. It's not necessary and for most us, rather unflattering. Instead, just get some loose, fit clothing that breathes. You want to work up a sweat and be able to move, not look like you're competing with Lance Armstrong.
Hydrate. Your house probably isn't as airy as a gym, especially in winter months, so please hydrate especially an hour before class, as sometimes we get caught up in the moment and don't sip as much as we should during the workout. I recommend a water bottle with a lid, in case it gets knocked over; if you want to feel like a boss when hydrating, get yourself a Swell Bottle.
Variety is the spice of life fitness. Take advantage of the fact that you're on your own schedule to mix it up. Do some cardio and resistance work combinations. Try an online class you never thought you'd like (kickboxing? tai chi?). Go outside and run, walk, or stretch. Celebrate the fact that you are alive and move !
Photo Credits: Rene Cunningham, NVCO London
How to Work Out at Home Andy Hayes
