You show up 30 minutes before a scheduled Zumba class and you’re excited to get a great cardio workout. But as soon as you walk in you are hit with a line of people who are all waiting, only to find that the class is already full. Slightly disappointed you decide to just use some of the machines only to find that there are none available. Discouraged and suddenly unmotivated to work out at all, you decide to return to your apartment and watch TV all night.
Stop right there. Instead of stressing about overcrowded gyms take the same energy you had on the way to the gym and work out in the comfort of your own apartment or dorm. Below are some ways to get a similar fitness experience in your own home.
Whenever I work out at the gym, my tried and true favorite machine is the stair climber. It works out my legs as well as keeps my heart rate up, but you don’t need a machine to get the same effect. Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs! Taking the stairs is a great cardio workout and it even works for toning legs, buns and more.
Do you like to use weights at the gym and find yourself frustrated that you don’t have a set at home? Instead of running out to a fitness store to spend $20 you do not have, walk right into your kitchen. Grab a can of vegetables or freeze a water bottle. You can use these at home weights and when you’re done you have supper or an ice cold refreshing drink right in your hands.
If you find yourself having trouble pulling yourself away from the TV long enough to do any exercise, try what like to call the commercial mini-marathon. Every time your show goes to commercial, get up and run as fast as you can in place until your show comes back on. That way you get the best of both worlds, entertainment from your favorite show and a quick cardio blast from your commercial mini-marathon.
Working out does not have to be a hassle and you shouldn’t have to wait it long lines. Be creative, have fun with it.