4 Ways to Make Your Home Workouts More Fun and Motivating
When working out at home is the only option, it can quickly turn into just another thing on our To Do list. The last thing you want is for your workouts to become boring or stale — it can lead to a dip in motivation and stall (or undo) any progress you’ve made so far. But that doesn’t need to happen! With these four ideas, you can make exercise something to look forward to again:
#1 Join a group workout online
Livestream fitness classes are all the rage right now, whether it be Zumba, body weight training, or stretching sessions. You can join in on the group fun through different online platforms like YouTube, Zoom, or even Instagram! The variety of available activities also makes sure that your workouts are never dull.
What’s even more beneficial is the fact that you’re getting to exercise with a group. We can all certainly use our friends at a time like this! And when it comes to exercising, studies show that group activities are very motivating. Sure, there’s an element of competition involved in it, but more importantly, there’s also an accountability factor. If you’re struggling to get off the couch, perhaps all you need to do is find a virtual livestream workout and a long-distance buddy to sweat with.
#2 Try a viral dance craze
TikTok is a video-sharing platform that the internet is currently obsessed with. It’s not just for young people, too, as there is a ton of practical content like recipes and home decoration tips, too.
But one type of content that’s been entertaining to watch are the dozens of dance crazes that many people are trying, and you can do it, too! It’s certainly a bit of a challenge to try and put all the moves together — but hey, you won’t even realize that you’re actually getting a sweat session in.
#3 Turn your daily chores into a workout
Feeling like you just want to skip a workout on some days because you’ve been working so hard or it just doesn’t actually fit into your schedule. You still have to work and do your daily chores, like cooking, vacuuming, and doing the laundry. So, what’s the solution? Mix your exercise into your chores, of course!
It’s a lot simpler than it sounds, especially as tasks like cooking or doing the laundry involve a lot of waiting around. That gives you enough time to do a few sets of squats, lunges or jumping jacks. You can also aim for a number of steps a day - 10,000 is that recommended number you can go for. Fortunately, you don’t have to count manually, as smart watches and other wearable technology can do the tracking for you. Next time you don’t feel like working out, take your dog out for a walk or sweep your living room. Those are still good ways to build up a sweat and get your chores done, too. Every step counts!
#4 Turn your workouts into a game
Old-school games like jump rope, hopscotch, or freeze dance are not just for kids. They can be highly enjoyable for adults, as well. Plus, they can give you a serious workout in the process and be a good way to entertain your kids if they’re at home with you, too.
Aside from the classics, you can also try to turn your exercise into a game of Bingo. Instead of numbers, fill your card with workout moves like 20 squats or 10 sit-ups. Complete whatever new combination comes up every time you’re out of ideas on how to structure your routine.
Which of these at home workouts will you try?
Photo credits: Unsplash (Brooke Cagle) and Canva.com