If you want to save money and skip paying for a gym membership, you likely plan on working out at home instead. Plenty of people have seen success through at-home workouts, whether they have gym equipment in their home or they work with a smaller arsenal of tools. You might be wondering whether or not working out at home is effective when compared to all the equipment a gym can offer. An at-home workout routine can be effective, but you need to approach it in the correct way to see results.
Educate yourself
If you want your at-home workout to be effective, you’ll need to take the time to educate yourself when you first start working out. Learn the proper form for any exercise you do and gain an understanding of what exercises work which parts of your body and how you can get a full body workout with no or limited equipment. If you’re planning on working out at home, you’ll need to put a lot of initial effort into the beginning to learn how to make these workouts as effective as possible. Luckily, there are plenty of online resources you can access, such as blogs, or even download apps that include plenty of exercises, videos, and virtual coaches.
Mix up your routine
While you’re working out at home, remember to mix up your routine. You’re already lacking the stimulus of a gym, such as interacting with other people and the variety of equipment. In order to make your at-home workouts as effective as possible, you’ll need to mix up your routine in order to stay interested and motivated in what you’re doing.
Invest in some items
While you can get a solid workout in using only your own body weight, there are plenty of inexpensive items that make it easier to achieve your fitness goals. Start with a few free weights, an exercise mat, and something like a jump rope to help with cardio. If you have the money and the room, you can invest in larger items such as cardio and lifting machines.
Include cardio
Just because you do not have a treadmill or elliptical doesn’t mean you cannot include cardio in your workout. Jump roping is an easy way to elevate your heart rate, as is taking up running. You can also go up and down your stairs several times or do a fast routine to keep your heart rate up. There are lots of options for cardio that do not include sophisticated equipment. Cardio is an important aspect of a well-rounded workout routine.