.Busy schedules and limited access to gyms shouldn’t be barriers to staying fit. This blog explores the world of home workouts, providing tips, resources, and a variety of exercises that can be done in the comfort of one’s own living room.

 

As a woman in her 30s navigating the balance of career, family, and personal time, the pursuit of a fitness routine that seamlessly integrates into my life has been transformative. The days of hitting the gym for hours on end are way behind me, but the joy of working out is still a huge part of my routine. 

 

 

My lifestyle had to change once my husband and I started having kids. We found it harder and harder to go to the gym and have our names not be called over the intercom from the gym childcare. 

Our son was definitely not the kid who wanted to cooperate while his parents wanted to get in an hour workout. So we started to come up with a different plan and bring our workouts to our home.

It was something we couldn’t give up. The benefits of how we felt having a consistent workout routine far outweighed just giving up the gym because our toddler had a different plan for us at the time. 

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my journey and dive deeper into practical tips on how to create an effective and fulfilling workout routine from the comfort of your home.

 

 

The Ultimate Guide to Home Workouts:

 

• Discovering Your Why:

Before embarking on any fitness journey, understanding your motivation is key. At 33, my priorities have shifted from aesthetic goals too sustaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Whether it’s improving overall health, managing stress, or boosting confidence, identifying your “why” will anchor your commitment throughout your fitness journey.

 

• Setting Realistic Goals for Home Workouts:

In the pursuit of health and wellness, setting realistic and achievable goals is paramount. Consider your current phase of life and set objectives that align with your top priorities. Perhaps it’s incorporating a 30-minute home workout into your daily routine or achieving a specific fitness milestone within a reasonable timeframe. I know I have to schedule my workout routine around everything the kids have planned. I figured out my dedicated time is in-between school pick ups!

 

• Creating a Dedicated Space:

Establishing a specific area in your home for workouts is essential for cultivating consistency. It doesn’t need to be an elaborate home gym; a corner with a yoga mat, some resistance bands, and perhaps a motivational quote on the wall can create an inviting space for your exercise routine.

When I first started my journey for my at home workouts, I had a small space in my garage. We later turned our entire garage into a gym on one side. It was a great place for me to go so I could separate all the things I needed to get done on the inside of the house and focus on my exercise.

Now since we moved across country, we are in an apartment. I brought my rack of weights and I pull out a yoga mat from the closet and my kitchen serves as my new space!

• Mixing It Up:

Boredom can be a significant hurdle in maintaining a consistent workout routine. Keep things interesting by incorporating a variety of exercises. It took me a lot of trial and error figuring out what exercise styles that I prefer. Explore different fitness modalities, from yoga and Pilates to strength training and cardiovascular workouts.

Numerous online platforms offer a number of workout videos catering to diverse preferences and fitness levels. Youtube.com is a great place to start for any at home workout. That was my go to when I first cancelled my gym membership.

You can search anything you feel like doing for that day. There are also so many fitness apps that offer subscription plans for at home workouts where you can follow a dedicated plan that incorporates different muscle groups to train. 

One of the fitness influencers just came out with her own app. I absolutely love it and it’s what I’m using right now. I will link it here. 

• Investing in Basic Equipment for your Home Workouts:

While effective workouts can be accomplished without any equipment, investing in a few basics can enhance your routine. Items like resistance bands, dumbbells, and a stability ball are versatile additions that don’t demand much space but can significantly diversify your exercise regimen.

When I first started I invested in a set of dumbbells and a yoga mat. My collection has grown since than but it is a great place to start for my home workouts!

 

• Prioritizing Recovery:

As we age, recovery becomes increasingly crucial. Ensure you’re incorporating rest days into your routine and focusing on activities that aid recovery, such as stretching, foam rolling, or indulging in a relaxing bath. Prioritizing recovery is integral to maintaining a sustainable and injury-free fitness journey.

At first, rest days feel wrong. But they are just as important as the days you are exercising. We have to allow our muscles to recover. It gives the body time to repair, rebuild, and strengthen between workouts. 

 

• Making Time for Self-Care:

Balancing the demands of work, family, and personal commitments is no small feat. Position your home workout time as an act of self-care. It’s not just about physical health but also about nurturing your mental well-being. Recognize and appreciate the positive impact that prioritizing your health can have on various aspects of your life.

 

• Finding Accountability:

Whether through a workout buddy, an online fitness community, or a dedicated fitness app, having a source of accountability can make a significant difference. Knowing that someone is cheering you on, sharing your victories, and understanding your struggles can provide the motivation needed to stay consistent on your fitness journey.

I always tend to post on my personal instagram stories. Whether it benefits anyone else, it’s a good place for me to show that I showed up for myself that day. 

 

• Listening to Your Body:

At 33, I’ve learned the importance of tuning into my body’s signals. Some days, high-intensity workouts are invigorating, while other days call for a gentler approach. Pay attention to what your body needs and be flexible in adjusting your routine accordingly. Embrace a holistic approach that caters to your physical and mental well-being.

 

• Celebrating Small Wins:

Amidst the busyness of life, celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Every completed workout, each new milestone reached, is a step toward a healthier, happier you. Acknowledge and appreciate the progress you make, fostering a positive mindset that will sustain your commitment to long-term well-being.

Home workouts have brought me a renewed sense of balance and well-being. It’s not about conforming to societal expectations. But rather about embracing a fitness journey that aligns with my life at this moment.

With dedication, flexibility, and a generous sprinkle of self-love, creating a sustainable home workout routine is not only achievable but also immensely rewarding. So, lace up those sneakers, press play on that home workout video, and embark on your journey to a healthier, happier you!