With the recent coronavirus pandemic, home workouts are now more popular than ever, but perhaps you’re wondering exactly how to exercise at home? 

Exercise is not only great for your physical health but has huge benefits for your mental wellbeing. For some much-needed stress relief, muscle toning, or even to improve cardiovascular health, there are a number of things you can do from the comfort of your own home. 

Getting started…

This is arguably the most difficult part. Getting off the sofa and into your gym clothes requires motivation which may be hard to conjure up right now. I know, it’s just easier to watch Netflix in your PJ’s all day! 

Thinking about it too much can actually result in talking yourself out of it. 

The best way to get started on exercising at home is to set a specific time each day and stick to it! Make it routine and you’ll find it so much easier. It’s said it takes 21 days to make a habit, so set yourself a schedule for at least 21 days and see how you go. 

Try finding a workout partner to keep each other accountable, whether that’s someone in your household or a friend over Skype!

But always remember to incorporate rest days – this is very important when working out.

Why should I bother?

There are many benefits of exercise, especially at a time like this when you may not be moving your body as often as usual. Aside from the physical health benefits, exercise also helps to reduce anxiety and depression as it releases chemicals such as serotonin that improve your mood. A few of the benefits are:  

#1 Better mood and mental health

When you workout at home you’ll get an instant boost to both your mindset and body. When you workout endorphins and feel-good hormones such as dopamine and serotonin are released, these hormones will lift your spirit and mood immediately. 

#2 Balanced energy levels 

You’ll notice that you have more balanced energy throughout the day, instead of having the up and down slumps that most people experience.

#3 Better sleep

Do you know how important sleep is? Poor sleep will lead to weight gain, mood swings, hormone imbalances, and a poor immune system. So how do you improve your sleep? One of the best ways to improve your sleep is to exercise. 

Working out will make you tired and help you destress, meaning you’ll be more likely to relax at bedtime. 

KEY TIP: I would recommend working out either in the morning or straight after work. Walking later at night is fine, but try to avoid vigorous exercise just before bed as this will have the opposite effect and keep you awake. 

#4 Reduced risk of chronic disease 

Working out regularly (3-5x per week) will decrease the risks of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It will also improve key health markers, which will lead to a more exceptional quality of life. People who are fitter tend to live longer and lead happier lives. 

#5 Weight loss 

Training from home will burn calories. The more calories you burn, the more weight you’ll lose. Your weight loss will boost your confidence, lower inflammation in the body (which will make you feel better).

You’ll also be able to fit into clothes you haven’t been able to wear in years – sounds good, doesn’t it? If you can burn 200-300 calories per day (20-30 mins exercise), you’ll be well on your way to shedding those pounds. 

#6 Stress relief 

There’s no better way to blow off some steam than a good home workout. Whenever you’re stressed, you will be more likely to eat, binge on food, and feel rubbish.

To prevent this and reduce the impact of negative stress you can workout. HIIT sessions are perfect for this, and so too is weight training. Channel all of your stress into the workout and watch how much better you feel afterward. 

#7 Improved cardiovascular health

Boosting your fitness will improve your cardio. You’ll be able to do more each day, and your stamina will give you a confidence boost during everyday life…

Walking up the stairs will be a breeze, running for a bus won’t challenge you and you’ll have more energy to do the things you love with the people you care about. 

I could go on…

I’m sure I don’t need to go on about how exercise is good for you, but make sure you make exercise something you find enjoyable. Make it something you want to do, not something you have to do. 

It’s also a great way to pass the time and let’s be honest, we all have a lot of extra time at the moment! 

Home Workout Ideas:

16 Resistance Band Exercises

Home Ab Workout 

Bodyweight exercises

Here are some bonus tips to help you get the most out of your home workouts: 

Incorporate rest and recovery

Don’t push yourself to the limit, especially if you’re a beginner. 

If you’re suddenly exercising more than usual and trying new things, your muscles won’t be used to it. You need to incorporate appropriate rest and recovery to prevent yourself getting injured. You can try stretching regularly, getting enough sleep, and using muscle recovery tools such as a foam roller or massage gun. 

So if you did go for that 5K run and your legs are now suffering, try using recovery tools to get them back in their best shape. Trust me, you’ll be thankful later. 

Finally, if there is ever a time to invest in your mental and physical health, it is now! Use this time to think positively, set yourself some goals, and if you’re keen on the idea of doing home workouts, then I hope this guide helps in some way.