We all know that the holiday season can give rise to lots of busy days filled with family, food and other activities that make it so special, but in turn make finding the time to exercise more difficult. This time of year is great for relaxing and enjoying all of the little things in life. I completely suggest taking time to relax. However, if you’re anything like me, you want to get back in the routine. Because of the wintry weather, can make finding a place to exercise all the more challenging, too. Here I have compiled a list of activities that can serve your needs this post-holiday season from the comfort of your own home.
- Squats
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The squat requires very little space and can be performed virtually anywhere. This is an appropriate exercise to practice while you are hiding from your family in the bathroom or watching your favorite Christmas movie on television. A squat should look similar to sitting down on a chair. You want your legs and thighs to create a 90 degree angle before standing back up.
- Planks
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Planks are a very simple, well known, full body exercise that utilizes very little space. In this one, you want to remember to squeeze your abdominal muscles, while trying to keep your back as straight as possible. You can not only plank at the gym, but under the dinner table, beside the fireplace, Christmas tree, or in any other quintessential holiday environment.
- Lunges
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Side lunges, walking lunges, stepping back or forward. This exercise is versatile and can be made more difficult by the incorporation of weights. Lunges stretch and strengthen the lower body. Walking lunges are perfect to do in an empty hallway or living room.
- Russian Twists
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Russian twits isolate the core of the body. This exercise really works your abdominal muscles. A Russian twist consist on sitting on a flat surface, while keeping your legs bent slightly up to your chest and off the ground. Then, you want to twist your upper body from side to side, engaging all of the muscles across your core. To add weight, you could simply use an old textbook.
- Jumping Jacks
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This old favorite you probably learned in elementary school is an efficient way to incorporate some cardio into your holiday workout routine. First, you want to stand straight as a pencil, then spread both your arms and your legs in one swift motion, resembling a starfish. Repeat these motions until satisfied. Easy, right?
The holiday season doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your fitness goals! Using these exercises can be a fun way to start or end your day.