Keep Fit at Home | 10+ Home Workouts & Super Easy Exercises to Stay in Shape
Imagine staying in shape without ever stepping foot in a gym.
Intrigued? You should be!
Home workouts can be just as effective, if not more, than gym sessions. The best part? You can do them anytime, anywhere. From squats to push-ups, these bodyweight exercises are perfect for a full-body workout and will help you to keep fit at home.
Starting with simple moves and gradually increasing the difficulty keeps things challenging and exciting.
Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness enthusiast, working out at home fits seamlessly into your routine, boosting your wellness and keeping you active. Ready to get started?
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
· At-home workouts can be as effective as gym routines.
· Incorporate cardio into your routines.
· Beginner routines consist of basic bodyweight exercises.
· Mixing upper body with lower body exercises can help you achieve full-body workouts.
· Stay active and consistent by following a workout plan.
Why Home Workouts Are Effective
Home workouts are a great way to stay fit. They save time and money since you don’t need to go to the gym, making it easier to exercise regularly, even if you’re very busy.
Convenience
Home workouts save time and hassle by eliminating the need to commute to the gym. You can fit them into your schedule whenever it’s most convenient, whether it’s early in the morning or late at night.
Cost-Effective
Working out at home is budget-friendly. There’s no need for expensive gym memberships or fancy equipment. You can use household items or inexpensive gear like resistance bands and yoga mats.
Flexibility
Home workouts offer the flexibility to tailor your routine to your needs. You can choose exercises that suit your fitness level and goals, and easily adjust the intensity as you progress.
Privacy
Exercising at home provides a comfortable and private environment. You can work out without feeling self-conscious, which is especially beneficial for beginners who might feel intimidated at the gym.
Safety
By working out at home, you can control your environment to ensure safety. You can avoid crowded gym spaces and reduce the risk of injury by following proper techniques and using familiar equipment.
Tips for Setting Up Your Home Workout Space
Creating a solid home workout area needs thinking about where it goes, what gear you need, and which exercises you’ll do. Where you work out at home can really affect how often you do it and how motivated you feel. So choose your spot carefully to make the best of your space.
Choose the Right Spot
Select a location with enough space for movement and good lighting. Natural light can boost your mood and energy levels, making your workout more enjoyable.
Minimal Equipment
Opt for versatile equipment that doesn’t take up much space, like resistance bands, dumbbells, or a yoga mat. Household items like water bottles can also be used creatively.
Keep It Organized
An organized space is inviting and helps maintain consistency. Store your equipment neatly in bins or on shelves to keep the area tidy and ready for use.
Create a Motivating Environment
Decorate your workout area with motivational posters or quotes. Add some music or a TV to keep yourself entertained and motivated during workouts.
Plan Your Routine
Have a clear workout plan to follow. This keeps you focused and ensures that you cover all necessary exercises. Use apps or print out routines to guide you through your sessions.
Hacks To Keep Fit At Home
Exercising can be tough with a busy schedule. However, quick workouts can fit easily into your day.
Morning Routine
Start the day with short but effective exercises.
I like to do a bit of yoga early in the morning, then step up on the treadmill and walk about 5k steps. The next section has a few ultra-easy yoga routines you can do in the mornings.
In general, it’s about doing something to stay active, no matter your fitness level.
Before Bed Routine
Gentle Stretching
Perform light stretches to relax your muscles and relieve tension. Focus on areas that might feel tight from the day’s activities, like your neck, shoulders, and legs.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Practice deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind. This can help lower your heart rate and promote relaxation.
Foam Rolling
Use a foam roller to gently massage and release muscle tension. This can aid in muscle recovery and improve sleep quality.
Light Walk
A short, leisurely walk can help clear your mind and wind down before bed. Keep the pace slow and focus on your breathing.
Meditation
Spend a few minutes meditating to quiet your mind and reduce stress. Guided meditations or mindfulness exercises can enhance your relaxation and improve sleep quality.
10+ 20-minute Easy Home Workouts To Keep Fit At Home
Workout 1 – Upper Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Push-Ups | 3 x 10-12 | 60 sec |
Dips | 3 x 8-10 | 60 sec |
Inverted Rows | 3 x 10 | 45 sec |
Diamond Push-Ups | 2 x 8 | 45 sec |
Plank | 2 x 60 sec | 30 sec |
Workout 2 – Lower Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Squats | 4 x 15 | 60 sec |
Lunges | 3 x 10 each leg | 45 sec |
Glute Bridges | 3 x 12 | 60 sec |
Calf Raises | 2 x 20 | 30 sec |
Plank | 2 x 60 sec | 45 sec |
Workout 3 – Core Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Plank | 3 x 60 sec | 45 sec |
Russian Twists | 3 x 20 | 30 sec |
Bicycle Crunches | 3 x 15 | 45 sec |
Leg Raises | 2 x 12 | 30 sec |
Side Plank | 2 x 45 sec each side | 60 sec |
Workout 4- Upper Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Pull-Ups/Assisted Pull-Ups | 3 x 6-8 | 90 sec |
Pike Push-Ups | 3 x 8 | 60 sec |
Pseudo Planche Push-Ups | 2 x 6 | 60 sec |
Superman | 2 x 10 | 45 sec |
Side Plank | 2 x 45 sec each side | 30 sec |
Workout 5- Lower Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Jump Squats | 4 x 10 | 75 sec |
Step-Ups | 3 x 12 each leg | 60 sec |
Lateral Lunges | 3 x 10 each leg | 45 sec |
Single Leg Deadlifts | 2 x 10 each leg | 60 sec |
Flutter Kicks | 2 x 20 | 30 sec |
Workout 6- Core Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Dead Bugs | 3 x 15 | 45 sec |
Forearm Planks | 3 x 45 sec | 30 sec |
Heel Taps | 3 x 20 | 30 sec |
Flutter Kicks | 2 x 20 | 45 sec |
Hollow Hold | 2 x 45 sec | 60 sec |
Workout 7- Upper Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Push-Up to Side Plank | 3 x 8 each side | 60 sec |
Decline Push-Ups | 3 x 10 | 45 sec |
Chin-Ups/Assisted Chin-Ups | 3 x 6 | 90 sec |
Tricep Dips | 2 x 10 | 60 sec |
Dead Bug | 2 x 15 | 45 sec |
Workout 8- Lower Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Wall Sits | 3 x 60 sec | 45 sec |
Bulgarian Split Squats | 3 x 8 each leg | 60 sec |
Fire Hydrants | 2 x 12 each leg | 30 sec |
Donkey Kicks | 2 x 15 each leg | 30 sec |
Supermans | 2 x 15 | 45 sec |
Workout 9- Core Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Crunches | 4 x 15 | 30 sec |
Planks to Push-Up | 3 x 10 | 45 sec |
Bird Dogs | 3 x 10 each side | 30 sec |
Inchworms | 2 x 8 | 60 sec |
Side Plank Crunches | 2 x 15 each side | 45 sec |
Workout 10 – Upper Body Focus
Exercise | Sets x Reps | Rest |
Wide Push-Ups | 3 x 12 | 45 sec |
Reverse Flyes | 3 x 12 | 45 sec |
Close Grip Push-Ups | 2 x 10 | 60 sec |
Rear Delt Raises | 2 x 15 | 45 sec |
Hollow Hold | 2 x 45 sec | 30 sec |
If you want to follow a structured workout plan for complete beginners, make sure you check out my FREE WORKOUT PROGRAMS that you can download in PDF.
Cool Down Yoga Poses to Enhance Flexibility and Strength
After your home workouts to keep fit at home, adding yoga poses can help you stretch, and improve your flexibility. Downward Dog and Warrior Pose are key for this. These stretch your body and make you feel better.
Yin Yoga is something I have been testing recently, and it is doing wonders for my flexibility. Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga that involves holding passive poses for extended periods, typically 3 to 5 minutes. It targets deep connective tissues, such as ligaments, joints, and fascia, promoting flexibility and circulation. Yin Yoga encourages relaxation and mindfulness, making it an excellent practice for calming the mind and preparing for sleep. It complements more dynamic forms of exercise by balancing the body’s energy and enhancing overall well-being.
Downward Dog
The Downward Dog pose is a basic move that works many muscles. Start on your hands and knees, then push your hips up. This makes your body into an upside-down ‘V’. It helps keep your spine long and your leg muscles—hams and calves—stretched. Over time, doing Downward Dog can boost your blood flow, helping your muscles recover faster.
Warrior Pose
Warrior Pose is great for getting stronger and more flexible. It is done by standing with one foot in front and one behind, bending your front knee and reaching your arms up. It works out your legs, core, and arms. This betters your flexibility and increases your strength. It also evens out your muscles, lowering the chance of getting hurt.
Working these poses into your daily exercise helps with tons of good stuff. You’ll see better muscle shape, become more flexible, and feel calm. Yoga fits well in any workout plan, keeping you healthy and happy.
Yoga Basic Routines for Stretching and Cool Down
Routine 1 – Stretch & Cool Down
Exercise | Hold Time |
Child’s Pose | 1 min |
Forward Fold | 45 sec |
Downward Dog | 1 min |
Pigeon Pose | 45 sec each side |
Seated Forward Fold | 1 min |
Legs Up The Wall | 2 mins |
Routine 2 – Stretch & Cool Down
Exercise | Hold Time |
Butterfly Pose | 1 min |
Cobra Pose | 30 sec |
Cat/Cow | 1 min |
Seated Spinal Twist | 45 sec each side |
Wide-Legged Forward Fold | 1 min |
Corpse Pose | 2-3 mins |
Routine 3 – Stretch & Cool Down
Exercise | Hold Time |
Ragdoll Pose | 45 sec |
Standing Back Bend | 30 sec |
Half Lord of the Fishes | 45 sec each side |
Downward Dog Split | 30 sec each leg |
Bridge Pose | 1 min |
Savasana | 2-3 mins |
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) at Home
High-Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT, is a top pick for home workouts. It is known for its great results and being easy to fit into any schedule. HIIT involves short but intense exercises followed by brief rests. This intense yet quick style is perfect for those with packed days. This type of exercise is great to increase your heart rate.
This is one of my favorite HIIT training routines:
Tabata Style Workouts
Tabata style workouts are a hit in the world of HIIT. They feature 20 seconds of hard work, then 10 seconds to catch your breath. This cycle repeats eight times and is great for improving endurance and fitness. You can do moves like burpees, jumping jacks, and push-ups in a Tabata session. It’s a fun way to get a full-body workout.
Tips for Maximizing HIIT Sessions
To get the most out of your HIIT at home, follow these tips:
1. Choose Effective Exercises: Pick five moves, such as squats, mountain climbers, or burpees. Do each in a row three times. Mix in exercises like Russian twists and kettlebell swings for variety and to work all your muscles.
2. Duration and Rest: Aim for 20 to 30 seconds of hard work then take a 10 to 30-second break. Adjust the timing based on what challenges you most and fits your fitness level. This helps you push yourself and keep the workouts interesting.
3. Equipment: As you get stronger, add weights, resistance bands, or machines to your routine. But remember, you can do a lot with just your body weight, which is a great place to start. Beginners especially benefit from these types of exercises.
4. Frequency: Do your HIIT routine in your bodyweight rest days. This rest allows your muscles to repair and grow stronger.
5. Safety First: Always start with lighter weights and focus on doing the exercises with good form. This helps avoid injuries. Remember, you can adjust any move to fit your needs, whether you’re just starting or have specific health concerns.
Tabata Workout 1
Exercise | Work (secs) | Rest (secs) |
Burpees | 20 | 10 |
Push-Ups | 20 | 10 |
Squat Jumps | 20 | 10 |
Mountain Climbers | 20 | 10 |
(Repeat 4 times) |
Tabata Workout 2
Exercise | Work (secs) | Rest (secs) |
Jump Lunges | 20 | 10 |
Plank Jacks | 20 | 10 |
High Knees | 20 | 10 |
Russian Twists | 20 | 10 |
(Repeat 4 times) |
Tabata Workout 3
Exercise | Work (secs) | Rest (secs) |
Jumping Jacks | 20 | 10 |
Close-Grip Push-Ups | 20 | 10 |
Sit-Outs | 20 | 10 |
Plank Up-Downs | 20 | 10 |
(Repeat 4 times) |
Notes:
· Each Tabata workout follows the 20 seconds work, 10 seconds rest pattern for 8 rounds (4 minutes per exercise)
· Repeat the full 4-exercise circuit 4 times for a total of 20 minutes
· Rest 1 minute between full circuit rounds if needed
Upper Body Bodyweight Exercises
Bodyweight exercises are a top-notch choice for a full-body workout. You don’t need any equipment, which makes them great for all fitness levels. They are super for improving how fit you are and your metabolism.
Include push-ups, squats, and planks in your workout to make your muscles stronger and build a solid training plan.
Push-Ups
Push-ups work your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. They give your upper body a solid workout. They work well because they make your muscles work hard and they never get easy.
If you’re just starting out, try push-ups on your knees. Once those get easier, move to harder types like diamond or one-arm push-ups. Doing push-ups often makes your upper body stronger and helps overall muscle power stay longer.
Planks
Planks strengthen your core, working your shoulders, back, and abs. Keeping a straight line from head to heels is key. Adding side or one-legged planks makes it harder, fitting different levels. Doing planks often boosts core might, a key point for staying stable and going the distance.
When combined with other bodyweight moves, planks offer a well-rounded workout. They target many muscle groups.
Working out with just your body can get you in fine shape without needing gear. It builds muscle, amps up your staying power, and boosts how you burn calories when you stick with it.
Pull-up
· Start with assisted pull-ups using resistance bands or a pull-up assist machine if you can’t do full pull-ups yet. This allows you to build up the necessary strength.
· Focus on pulling your shoulder blades together and keeping your body in a straight line from heels to head when doing pull-ups.
· Mix up your grip – try an overhand grip, underhand grip, parallel grip, etc. to work your back muscles slightly differently.
· Do negative pull-ups by jumping up to the bar and slowly lowering yourself down to build strength.
· Add weight by wearing a backpack or using a dip belt once regular pull-ups become easy.
Core Workouts for a Stronger Abdomen
Building a strong core is key for overall fitness. It helps with better movement, supports your spine, and aids in daily tasks. Many exercises help make your core stronger and more stable. Today, we’ll look at two of the best: bicycle crunches and Russian twists.
Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches work out your front and side abs, and also your hip flexors.
Lay on your back with your knees up and hands behind your head. Next, lift your shoulders off the floor. As you do this, bring one knee up and reach your opposite elbow toward it. Then, switch to the other side like you’re pedaling a bike. Keep the moves smooth and controlled. This strengthens your abs and improves your core’s stability.
Try doing 12 to 15 reps for the best results.
Russian Twists
Next up are Russian twists, great for your side abs and lower back. Sit on the floor with your knees bent, and feet flat on the ground. Lean back a bit to make a V with your upper body and legs. Hold a weight or keep your hands together. Then, swing your torso from side to side, making sure to tap the floor beside your hip each time. This move not just works your abs but also helps with balance and stability.
Avoid injury by keeping a good form and add more reps as you get stronger.
Adding bicycle crunches and Russian twists to your routine really boosts your core strength. It’s important to do them right and keep up with regular sessions. This way, you’ll see big improvements in your abdominal muscles.
Effective Lower Body Exercises
It’s key to strengthen your lower body for total fitness. Exercises such as lunges, glute bridges, and step-ups can boost your leg strength. They’re also great for activating your glutes. Let’s dive into how you can do these lower body workouts.
Squats
Squats focus on your quads, hamstrings, and glutes along with the core. They do a lot for your whole body. Jump squats are great for your glutes, quads, and shoulders, plus they work your heart harder.
Begin with regular squats and move on to tougher ones like pistols. Squats help pump up your muscle strength and improve fitness along with metabolism.
Lunges
Lunges work your quads, glutes, and hamstrings well. Start with feet apart, then step one leg forward and lower your hips. Keep going until your legs form a 90-degree angle. Return to the start and switch legs. Side lunges are great for balance improvement. They make around 78% of people stronger and more stable.
Glute Bridges
Glute bridges really fire up your glutes. Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat on the ground. Push your hips up, tightening your glutes at the top. Then, lower down. Studies show they can beef up your hamstring strength by 15%. Plus, doing them includes moving diagonally and side-to-side. This is super for your glute medius muscle.
Step-Ups
Add step-ups to your routine. Use a bench and place one foot on it. Push through your heel to raise your body, then step back down. It works out your quads, hamstrings, and glutes. This boosts your leg strength and stamina. Step-ups work for everyone, helping you shape and strengthen your legs consistently.
Strength Training with Household Items
Your home can be a perfect spot to get strong using things you already own. Items like milk jugs, detergent bottles, and resistance bands are all you need. This way, you save money yet stay in top shape by lifting and pulling these everyday objects.
Using Milk Jugs and Detergent Bottles
There’s a lot in your house that can help you work out. For example, a gallon of milk is great for lifting and swinging exercises. You can do moves like the one-arm kettlebell Arnold press, which works your whole body, with detergent bottles. These simple household items can do wonders for your muscles.
Benefits of Resistance Bands
Don’t forget about resistance bands. They’re amazing at making your muscles stronger. You can even use things like towels and T-shirts instead of buying bands. Not only are they cheap, but they’re easy to take anywhere.
By using everyday things for strength training, you can keep your workouts interesting. This method makes sure your muscles grow well without going to a gym. Now, let’s take a closer look at how these items compare for your workouts:
Household Item | Weight | Ideal Exercises |
Milk Jug | 8.5 pounds | Bicep Curls, Kettlebell Swings |
Detergent Bottle | Varies | One Arm Arnold Press |
Resistance Bands | Light to Heavy Resistance | Full-body Workouts |
Staying Motivated and Consistent
It’s key to stay motivated and keep at it with your workouts. To really make progress, you should set achievable goals. These goals will not only boost your fitness but also improve your work and home life. By breaking big goals into smaller ones, you’ll see success steps more clearly.
Trying out different types of exercises can also fire up your motivation. For example, dancing can be just as effective as a traditional workout. Doing things you enjoy makes exercise feel like a fun part of your routine, not a chore.
Online fitness groups and support sites are another great way to stay psyched about working out. Research shows that people who get motivation online lose more weight. These platforms offer advice from pros and keep you on target with your health goals. Joining these groups can really boost your dedication.
Building your workout routine into a daily habit can make a big difference. Even something as simple as taking the stairs every day can help you lose weight over time. Making these little changes consistently is the real secret to long-term fitness. And don’t forget, finding what works for you and sticking to it is essential for staying on track with your health.
Final Words
Wow, you made it through! Keeping fit at home is totally doable, and you’ve got the blueprint now. From the freedom of working out anytime to the simplicity of bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats, home workouts are a game-changer. Remember to set up a motivating space, use everyday items for strength training, and mix in quick 10-minute routines to stay consistent.
The key takeaway? Fitness at home is effective, cost-saving, and super convenient. So, no excuses—get moving and enjoy your journey to a fitter you!
Ready to start? Let’s make every day a workout day!
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/at-home-workouts
https://www.wellbydesign.com/post/fit-at-home-7-tips-to-create-a-healthy-home-workout-room
https://www.onepeloton.com/blog/bodyweight-exercises
https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/yoga-for-flexibility
https://www.today.com/health/diet-fitness/hiit-workout-at-home-rcna18012
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/g30985585/hiit-workout-at-home
https://www.healthline.com/health/best-core-exercises
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/core-strength/art-20546851
https://www.prevention.com/fitness/workouts/g27915622/lower-body-workout
https://www.self.com/gallery/killer-legs-no-gear-required-slideshow
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/getting-active/10-minute-home-workout