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Exercise At Home

October 12, 2016



Getting Creative with your Workouts

 

 

 

I have posted lots about my love for High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT).  They are fast, super effective and can be done anywhere.  However, like you, I can get bored of the “same old, same old.”  I usually perform my workouts in my living room using my body weight, resistance bands and my almost 3-year-old and 6 month old.  I have had to get creative with furniture, props and my use of space to change things up.  Today’s post is about sharing some exercise ideas using props in my own home hoping to inspire others out there that cannot always make it to a gym.

 

Prop #1: Chair.  Dining, folding, whatever.  Any chair can work.  Well, one that is sturdy and has a hard surface.  I have been incorporating chairs for step ups, mostly.  I also use chairs for elevated planks/push-ups. 

 

Prop #2: Toy chest/ottoman.  I have a simple ottoman with a semi-soft surface that opens up.  It is filled with toys…of course.  It is sturdy and can hold my weight.  Before performing exercises, make sure it can hold your weight as well! The ottoman is a bit shorter than a chair and I use this piece for jumps!  I start off on the floor, jump and land softly in a squat position.  Holy high heart rate!

 

Prop #3: Stairs.  No brainer, right?  Stairs are a great way to get your heart rate up and work those legs.  You can run/walk, skip steps, jump, side step, etc. 

 

Prop #4: Towels.  Find a tile floor or hardwood floor and perform various planks.  Sliding your feet towards your chest, out to the side or in circles can turn a basic plank into super tough abdominal workout!

 

It’s always fun to add a little spice to your workouts.  The key is to always keep your body guessing in order to maximize results.  What are some exercise moves YOU do at home?  Please share! 

The Author


Karen Bobos, MSed

Karen M. Bobos, MSed, has been in the fitness industry since 1996 and feels her highest accomplishments are those results achieved by her clients through her guidance. She educates clients that there is no trick to being healthy, no magic pills, but rather optimal health is achieved through eating right and moving your body.

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