From the Comfort of Home

If making it to the gym every morning or afternoon is stressing you out, try a few of the following tips for working out at home and let go of that stress!

Whether you choose to workout from home because the gym is too far from home, you have young kids at home, your local gym is too pricey, or you just don't feel comfortable at the gym, a home workout can be just as effective as any gym workout!

By following a few of these tips for working out at home, you can fit in a great workout at any time of the day!

1. The No. 1 most important thing you can do is find a routine you're actually going to enjoy doing at home. Thanks to technology, you have access to an endless amount of at-home exercise options. Take a moment, think about what types of activities you enjoy, and then do some research. From fitness apps and websites (like Beachbody on Demand) that transform your phone, tablet, TV, or laptop into a personal trainer to live stream videos that turn your living room into a fitness studio, there are plenty of ways to get guidance, motivation, and variety.
2. Make a plan, set your alarm, and set out your clothes the night before.  Know what the next day’s workout is going to be and make it an appointment with yourself.  Don’t treat it as an optionable agenda item; it’s a date!
3. Set up your workout space and get some basic equipment: free weights, resistance bands, mats, foam rollers, etc.  Don’t have much space?  Keep that in mind when choosing your workout routine.  There are plenty of options that don’t require much equipment or space!
4. Go public with it!  Share your experience with family and friends.  Studies show when you share your progress and accomplishments, you’ll build a small group of cheerleaders, and you can tap into that satisfied feeling the next time you’re on the fence about working out.

The Bottom Line:

 

The best way to motivate yourself to work out at home is to find a routine you truly enjoy, so your at-home workout doesn't feel like work. Then, control as many factors as you can to set yourself up for success and make it a habit. Sure, the couch looks damn good when you come home after a long day, but sinking into it will feel so much better after you've earned it.