Ah yes, the New Year’s Resolution. How many of us picked “health” and “work out more” as 2019 resolutions? (I raised my hand, too.) It is no secret, though, that even with beginning-of-the-year incentives,
The good news is that there are a LOT of ways to work out at home. With easily accessible YouTube and streaming services, there is something for every budget and every person.
The hard truth is: there isn’t an excuse anymore. Yes, a workout takes time and you have to find the right fit for you. But even if you can’t afford a gym or simply don’t like them, there are so many options out there. You can find a way to
workout a few times a week. You just have to want to.
I asked my Facebook friends (some of the smartest people I know) how they love to work out outside the gym. And I have my favorites, too. Here, in a handy list, is what I compiled.
Ways to workout at home, without a gym membership:
Please note there are Amazon Affiliate links below and a click provides a small amount of support to The Family Trip.
Les Mills On Demand.
This is what I currently use. I pay $12.95/month and have access to a variety of classes. This has everything from plyometric work (BodyAttack) to weight lifting (BodyPump) to state-of-the-art spin and core classes. Some of the workouts do require equipment. Years ago, I purchased weights and a bar (make sure it isn’t
Bikini Body Guide.
I had a Facebook friend who said she swore by “BBG.” I felt like I should know what it is, based on my fitness obsession, but I needed Google to help me with this one. (Although we all know how dangerous it is to randomly Google acronyms.) I was safe; BBG is the Bikini Body Guide. Apparently launched to fame by Instagram, the program is wildly popular. Visit www.kaylaitsines.com to get started and learn more. People who do this program are believers.
Interval Work (keep it simple).
My friends LOVE interval work. And, scientifically proven, it is a great way to get in shape quickly. Yes, you can use an app, or just create your own! My friend, Scott, wrote, “Run 1/4 mile, do pull-ups, run 1/4, do push-ups, run, then box jumps … whatever pops into your head.” Time yourself, establish some goals, but no need to make this too complicated.
Running.
Probably the oldest, most reliable, and cheapest way to get in shape. Use an app like Runkeeper or C25k. If you want to make it social and need accountability, join a local running group! Look on meetup or check with your local running store (we have a Fleet Feet here that offers fantastic running groups of various levels and distances).
Yoga on YouTube.
Two of the most popular yoga instructors on YouTube, based on my completely unofficial Facebook poll and personal experience, are Adriene and Lesley Fightmaster (real name). These are completely free! There will be classes that work for you (there are hundreds of yoga videos of different lengths) depending on what your fitness goals are.
DVDs.
Yes, they still make these! And they still work! Jillian Michaels is a crowd favorite (always – and she is now on Prime Video!) but Paula Abdul has a dance workout and who can forget Billy Blanks?
Tone It Up App.
This app, available for $12.95/month right now, is fantastic (although definitely for the female crowd). With alerts, workouts, self-care tips, recipes, and more, this is an app that is going to speak to whole-body health and wellness. The videos and daily plans make it an easy-to-follow regimen.
Fitness Blender.
This was completely new to me but www.fitnessblender.com not only has a slew of free classes available for streaming but also workout plans and meal guides! There is even a forum and support group, so if you have questions, there are fitness friends waiting to help.
Beachbody On Demand.
Beachbody hasn’t gone anywhere, and it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. This time-proven fitness program is still captivating people – and they STICK WITH IT. That means a lot in fitness. This isn’t the cheapest option, but it is
Really, whatever your goals are, there are so many ways you can work out on your own turf according to your own rules. Your goals and interests are likely to change over time (don’t get bored!), so knowing that you have options is great, too.
You CAN stick with your New Year’s Resolution. We believe in you! Just pick the program that works for you, and go for it!