Since the pandemic, we have learned that we can pretty much do absolutely everything and anything from the comfort of our homes. From working or going to class to even learn how to dye our own hair, we have navigated all activities and adapted them so that they can be performed indoors. One of the most important and useful tasks we took over, was working out from the comfort of our room, living room or even backyard. Even though it may seem obvious and easy like “just grab a yoga mattress and follow a routine on YouTube”, we have found (from experience) that it takes more than just the drive to do it. 

We have prepared a series of tips so that you can workout from home and do it efficiently, comfortably and most importantly… have fun! This is the Waku Guide to Perfect your At-Home Workout. Take a look!

Set a goal or be clear on your objectives

In order for you to stay focused and motivated, you must have a goal to achieve. Now, it is very important that the goal you set is achievable on a short term basis. Take into consideration the real amount of free time you have and then how much time you would be willing to give to working out.

Once you have decided what it is you want to achieve (losing weight, gaining muscle, becoming more flexible, feeling more relaxed, etc), set a daily or weekly schedule that will help you get to your goal. For example, if you are more of a day-to-day person just include a time in your day to exercise and if you work better with weekly goals, decide which days you are going to workout and do it regardless that it may not be at the same time every day.

The point of this is to have clear, realistic goals and organize your agenda in order for you to know that there is a time throughout the day or the week that you are going to dedicate to physical activity in order for you to eventually see results.

Choose and set up your space 

Now that you know what you want to accomplish and approximately how much time that may take, you must choose a spot in the house where you can set up your equipment and have enough space to move your body around and perform all the exercises needed. 

You don't have to decide on a permanent workout area, if the day is sunny you may want to go outside and do your workout outdoors. Just make sure that each day you are going to be performing physical activity you have the space to do it and it doesn't take a lot of your time and energy to move things around.

Here are some ideas:

If you want to follow a dance routine you may want to move furniture around and do it in front of a tv. If you want to practice some yoga poses you may be able to do it just by setting a yoga mattress in your room. Or, if you want to run a little or move around in stations, you could go outside and do your workout in the garage or backyard.

Gather your gear and wear something comfortable 

You don't have to buy a lot of equipment, just have a soft and light mattress that you can move around, something to pour and carry water and comfortable but useful clothes.

Wear something that won’t get in the way of what you’re doing. Stuff that’s breathable, flexible, and comfortable. And don’t forget your feet! Just cause you’re inside doesn’t mean you have to be working out in socks. Consider a close-toed shoe that grips the ground and supports your feet and ankles.

Take a look at the exercises you are going to be performing and if you must lift weight choose something heavy enough that also has a grip, but hold it and manage it carefully. If it's easier and affordable, consult with a personal trainer or fitness specialist where and what you can buy for your at-home routines.

Be patient and stay safe

One of the most important components of exercising safely at home is creating a training routine that’s right for your unique body and not someone else’s. Make modifications if you’re following an online workout or class to make the workout appropriate for you, just like an instructor would have you do in a live class. Regardless of your skill level, it’s important to be realistic with your fitness goals and recognize when your body’s had enough. If you’re feeling a lot of pain or getting dizzy, that’s a good sign to stop.

To evaluate and constantly improve your form, consider setting up your phone to record you doing a few reps; it’s a great way to check and improve your form from various angles. Working with an online trainer — a certified expert who can design customized workouts and help you improve your form by watching you and coaching you via video — can be another great move for reducing the risk of injury.

To finish off, remember to stay focused and have fun! If you are going to work out, try to focus on the physical movements you are doing in order to do them better rather than to stress out about work or personal issues. Play your favorite workout music, look for delicious healthy recipes that complement your workouts and encourage yourself to not only look but feel better everyday. Finally, don't forget to include a bottle of Waku throughout your day in order to keep the hydration going and maintain your gut healthy and yourself glowing.

References

Everything You Need to Know About Working Out at Home

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: AT-HOME WORKOUT GUIDE