Last week, I stressed that it’s okay to move up your fitness goals a few notches on the priority scale. Now it’s time for some targeted advice on how to reach and exceed those goals. If getting to the gym is difficult for you, don’t worry; there are plenty of things you can do at home to firm up and shed that unwanted winter weight.
Wear Your Gym Clothes
This might sound crazy at first, but hear me out. Soon after I made the commitment to get back into shape after years of retirement, I stumbled upon a really good workout tip. I was super busy one Saturday and never changed out of my workout clothes, and what do ya know? I got the hankerin’ to throw in another at-home workout during my daughter’s nap later that afternoon. Since then, I’ve suggested that some of my clients wear their workout clothes around the house and I’ve received some very good responses.
One client said that when she looks the part, she’s more likely to act the part as well. She found herself “dropping and giving the dog 20” and even taking a few extra trips up and down the stairs while putting laundry away. Another woman said that looking down to see her running shoes made her think twice about going for seconds at dinner. The little extra things you do throughout the day can really add up over time, so don’t underestimate them!
Invest in a Few Essentials
Of course, a few extra sets of sit ups, push ups, lunges and bodyweight squats will help burn calories. But, if you want to take your workouts up a notch, I recommend investing in a few must-have items: a Swiss ball, a couple sets of dumbbells (one light pair for volume, one heavier pair for intensity) and a mountain bike. Swiss balls are incredibly versatile, and when combined with dumbbell work, your exercise possibilities are virtually endless. The mountain bike is great for impromptu cardio work, and if your kids are old enough, take them with you; not only will you be getting in a great workout and quality family time, but you’ll probably find your kids to be great motivators (who wants to get beaten by a 9 year-old??).
Working out at home can be quite effective if you make the commitment to it and you can improve your chances of success by involving your family and friends. Let them know what your goals are and you’ll probably be surprised at how supportive they will be. Who knows? They might even want to join you and get in better shape themselves.
Next week: quick and easy meals that won’t annihilate your exercise gains.