Exercise is an important part of everyday life. I’ve heard all the excuses for not wanting to exercise: “I don’t like to sweat,” “It’s not fun,” “I don’t belong to a gym,” “I don’t want to exercise by myself.” Luckily, there are many easy and affordable ways to exercise at home without equipment (except a decent pair of walking/running shoes)! No more excuses! Get moving!
- Walking – If the weather is nice, it’s a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy the scenery while you exercise. If the weather is not cooperating, walk around your house, garage, or up and down your stairs. You could also go to a nearby mall and walk laps in the comfort of a cool and dry climate. My IPod is my best companion for walking/running as I’ve downloaded songs that keep me moving to the beat.
- Jumping Jacks/Jumping Rope – These are always fun, as they bring back memories of being a kid! Who hasn’t done jumping jacks or jumped rope for fun as a child? They are also great cardio exercises, and good for warming up, too.
- Pushups – These are probably not the most favorite exercise of many people, but while they can be hard to do, you can find easier ways to do them. Do them on your knees instead of keeping your legs straight. Or, do them standing up against a wall. You will be building up arm strength and working out muscles in your chest area.
- Leg Lifts – These are great for building up strength and muscles in your legs. If you find it hard to do the exercises with your legs straight, try bending them slightly.
- Crunches – These are the best exercise for building up and strengthening abdominal muscles. When you’re just getting started, don’t worry about getting your head all the way up. As long as you’re going up until you feel the stretching of the muscles, you will see some benefit.
- Jogging In Place – Jogging is a great exercise for your heart. You can jog in place at home while watching TV or listening to music. The only equipment you will require is a good pair of shoes to eliminate any stress to your legs.
- Squats – These are wonderful exercises for your legs and buttocks. You can even just try these by sitting and standing up again from a regular chair, if you’re finding them to be too difficult. As long as you’re able to do a few repetitions, you will be providing some benefit to your body.
- Light Weight Lifting – You don’t need to go out and buy expensive weights for this! Use whatever you can find in your house. Start out with something lighter, such as a can of beans, and work yourself up to heavier items. You can use milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles or even water jugs.
- Dancing – Dancing is a wonderful exercise and is great for your heart. It can lift your spirits as well, and give your overall emotional boost.
- Step Exercises – Using the steps in your home, you can do repetitions which will tone your leg muscles.
I challenge you to do some form of exercise at least 4 times a week for at least 30 minutes a day starting TODAY! For those of you that already exercise at this level or higher, keep it up! For those of you that need to start, schedule a time during each day that you will exercise. Hold yourself and each other accountable! You can do it!
