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It can be hard to exercise when you’re not going to the gym. A lack of motivation and equipment, like treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights and ellipticals, are common reasons why getting off the couch and working out can become a burden.
But exercising at home can be more rewarding than going to the gym. For one thing you don’t have to pay for a membership. You also don’t have to look for excuses to avoid driving there and back. Nor do you have to go through the hassle of packing your bag and getting dressed.
Surprisingly, there are several great exercises you can easily perform without fancy equipment. Read this post to learn effective exercises that can be done at home without equipment and the reasons why in-home training beats the gym.
Is your gym closed during the lockdown? Don’t have any equipment to work out with? It doesn’t matter. You can get results from an in-home workout without any high-tech equipment.
Want to know how? Here’s why working out at home is better than going to the gym.
It Saves Time
Skipping the gym because of the time it takes to get there and back home is no excuse when you exercise at home. From working out in your pajamas to exercising at odd hours, you can get moving in the comfort of your home.
It’s Cheaper
From membership fees to paying extra for a personal trainer, gyms can be expensive. Fortunately, everything a gym offers can be substituted at home with two dumbbells, a yoga mat, a water bottle, at least 30 minutes and a personal trainer who comes to you on your schedule. Toronto has several companies that offer certified in-home fitness experts.
It Offers Flexibility
Many people find the gym intimidating. They’re afraid of looking stupid while trying new things and experience constant peer pressure, whereas in-home workouts are simple and comfortable. You don’t have to think about who’s watching, what you’re wearing and what equipment is available. Your schedule is more flexible at home and you have the freedom to mix and match exercises.
That said, if you’re a single parent, arranging for child care while you’re at the gym can be stressful and expensive. By choosing to exercise at home, you can follow your fitness routine and – if they’ll let you – take care of your little one at the same time.
It’s Hygienic
For the duration of the COVID-19 outbreak, going to a gym, even if it was open, is risky. Practicing social distancing is difficult when many people are using the same equipment, not to mention the sweat and germs accumulated on them.
Working out at home is more hygienic because you’re not sharing equipment or coming in close contact with an infected person.
Now that you understand why working out at home is better than the gym, try these great exercises you can easily perform anywhere at home without equipment.
1) Push-Ups
A push-up is a common bodyweight exercise that engages your triceps, pectorals and front deltoids (i.e. the muscle forming the rounded contour of the shoulder). It helps achieve bodily fitness, grace of movement and increased strength.
How to do them: Get into a high plank position and place your palms on the ground, hands shoulder-width apart. Bend your elbows lower toward the ground while keeping your back and neck neutral. Curl your toes upwards and raise yourself using your arms so you make a straight line from your head to your heels. Contract your abdominals to get the right position. Remember to breathe as you lower yourself. Repeat at least 10 to 12 times.
2) Wall Sit
This exercise strengthens your quadriceps and builds isometric strength. It’s great for losing belly fat and toning your thighs, hips, hamstrings and calves.
How to do them: Lean against a wall with your feet shoulder-width apart and firmly planted on the ground. Put your feet forward and slowly slide down (to a position like you’re sitting on a chair), while engaging your core. But keep leaning against the wall. Make sure your legs are bent at a right angle. If you’re a beginner, hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds, and gradually increase the hold time to one minute. Return to your starting position. Do three sets of 10 reps or follow your personal trainer’s instructions.
3) Crunches
Crunches are designed to tone core muscles, improve posture and increase muscle flexibility. They can be done anywhere and are ideal for people who want to build a six-pack.
How to do them: Lie flat on your back and plant your feet on the floor while keeping them hip-width apart. Keep your hands behind your head and bend your knees. Contract your abs and inhale. Lift your upper body so it meets your pelvis while exhaling and maintaining your core. Inhale and return to the starting position. Stick to a moderate number of three sets of 10 to 12 reps for optimal results.
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“If you perform crunches while engaging your hand or neck instead of your core, you increase your risk of injury”. – Gidon Gabbay, an experienced personal trainer in Toronto
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Working out at home has many benefits. From being a pocket-friendly choice to offering flexibility, you can comfortably stick to your fitness routine without fancy gym equipment. Motivation, a zeal to work out and a comfortable space are all it takes. If you need fitness guidance, you can hire our in-home personal training services in Toronto. Our experienced fitness trainers will come to you to help you exercise properly.