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COLUMN: 4 easy tips for an at-home workout
By Sophie Goldstein goldsso@iu.edu | @twitter
In the dreary Bloomington winter, it is often hard to nd the motivation to go to the gym. With gym memberships skyrocketing, it is dicult to nd an a ordable and useful way to workout. Follow these four easy steps to create a workout all in the comfort of your own home.
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Explore YouTube workouts
With a simple search of “athome workouts,” YouTube can provide you with thousands of options to choose from.
ere is a wide range of various workouts to do including Pilates, yoga, full-body workouts and even stretching with little to no equipment needed. YouTube-based workouts can help you build con dence and stamina without requiring an investment in a membership or a walk in the cold weather.
Fitness apps
Grab your nearest device and head to the App Store, where there are a ton of free workout apps that make it easy to build strength. e best exercise is the one you do, so choose a home workout plan that's based rst on what looks the most fun, and then nd a way to use it to meet your goals. A Glamour article breaks down the best apps that will meet your speci c needs based on your abilities.
Finding weights already in your home
In addition to gym memberships already being expensive, the price of equipment can be outrageous. ankfully, some of the items we already have at home can be converted into weights. You can use a hand towel as a slider, laun- dry detergent as kettlebells, a folding chair as a bench and a beach towel as a yoga mat. A list of more convenient ideas can be found here.
Ways to stay motivated
Working out can seem dreadful, especially when the weather is gloomy. But you can use apps for accountability, compare your progress with friends and push yourself to keep going. For those who want to get out of the house or connect with others, check out community groups on websites like Facebook that allow you to nd people in your area who are planning outdoor tness events, like a group hike or trail run. If you prefer to exercise solo, virtual races are also available online. Check out the Mayo Clinic website for more ways to stay motivated.
