Summer is here, and for many people, this means taking workouts from the crowded gym to the great outdoors. Things like hiking, biking, swimming, jogging and walking are all great outdoor activities to promote a healthier, happier you. But what about those rainy days and sweltering heat waves that make you think twice about leaving your house? Don’t let the weather be an excuse to take a day off from being physically active. There are many different ways to break a sweat and get your heart rate up, all from the comfort of your own home. Try these easy, inexpensive, indoor fitness ideas for when it’s too hot or too wet outside:
Couch Calisthenics
You don’t need a gym to get your body in shape. There are a number of exercises you can do –like sit-ups, elevated push-ups, and jumping jacks –all in your living room. Why not exercise during the commercial break of your favorite TV show? Also, check with your cable provider –many of them now offer on-demand exercise videos that are included with your cable subscription.
Beat Your High Score
Many video game developers are getting couch potatoes off their feet and getting them in shape with a variety of sports, dance, and motion arcade games designed to create a workout. You don’t need to break your bank, either; many of these games can be rented or checked out from your local library.
Get Squeaky Clean
There are so many cleaning-related activities–vacuuming floors, doing the laundry, washing dishes, changing the sheets/making the beds, moving from room to room to dust various surfaces –that can get you up and moving around. This not only gets your house cleaned, but it burns calories as well!
Align Your Chi
Meditative workouts like yoga and tai chi can be a great way to stay in shape and also reduce any stress your body may be holding onto. Rent a yoga DVD or see if your cable provider offers on-demand yoga or tai chi videos. Invite some friends over for fun and make it a party. Namaste!
As always, when you’re thinking about starting any new fitness regimen, talk to your doctor first. Don’t have a doctor lined up? If you’re a Health Advocate member, call us today to speak to a Personal Health Advocate who can help you locate an in-network, local, primary care physician. Also, some Health Advocate members may have access to our Wellness Coaching program—call today to enlist the help of a Wellness Coach in meeting your fitness or healthy eating goals, and more!
