Trying to Lose Weight in 2012? How to Exercise in Your Apartment

January 31st, 2012 by Caitlin Morgan| Posted in Apartment Guide, Apartment Living, Healthy Apartments | 2 Comments »

As January draws to an end, are you reflecting on all those resolutions you made a month ago?  How does it work when you your goals seem to conflict?  Specifically, what do you do when you’ve decided to get in shape AND spend more time at home or to spend less money?  We’ve put together some ways to exercise in your apartment so you can lose that weight without joining a gym.

Jumping Jacks

An oldie but a goodie.  Jumping jacks will get your heart pumping as they tone your muscles.  Do them in sets, and gradually increase the number of repetitions and/or number of jacks.  Related at-home workouts:  running up stairs and jumping rope.

Lift Weights

A pair of hand weights won’t break the bank, and they’re a great way to strengthen both your muscles and your bones.  Don’t jump in too quickly, however; learn how to use weights safely, and slowly build from lighter to heavier.

Watch Aerobics Videos

While pink workout tights may have gone out of style in the eighties, workout videos live on.  Shop around for the ones best suited to your goals and fitness level.

Dance

This is my personal favorite.  All you need is a good playlist, and enough space to flail about.  If you enjoy dancing, it may help you stick to your exercise goals.  It’s great cardio, and as an added bonus, the extra practice will help your rhythm when you’re out on the town!

Yoga

If you practice yoga regularly, you can deepen your experience by practicing on your own at home.  If you’re new to yoga, you can watch videos or listen to podcasts.  We suggest the latter only if you have a good understanding of how to safely move through the various poses.

Stretch

Stretching is exercise all by itself, and can be a good way to ease into more aerobic activities.  If you’re engaging in any of the exercises listed above, please remember to stretch and cool down when you’re done.  Your muscles, joints, and cardiovascular system will thank you.

As always, you should consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine.

Do you have hints for people who want to get in shape when they’re short on space?  Tell us here or on Facebook!