Working out from home offers flexibility, convenience, and an opportunity to build a consistent fitness routine without the need for a gym membership. So, why don’t more Canadians work out from home or in general? According to Made in CA, the biggest reasons for not exercising is finding the time and laziness. Other reasons consist of disliking working out, needing help to workout, and a lack of motivation.
Staying motivated and focused while exercising at home can be challenging, but not impossible. If you’re in a work-out drought and looking to start a more consistent workout routine from home or improve your current one, we have practical tips for you to beat common obstacles!
Here basic strategies to help you work out more effectively from home:
1. Set Clear, Realistic Goals
The first step in working out more at home is to set clear, achievable fitness goals. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, improve endurance, or simply stay active, having a defined goal will keep you motivated. Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, such as committing to a certain number of workouts per week or gradually increasing the intensity or length of your sessions. Tracking your progress will not only keep you motivated but also help you recognize the improvements you’re making over time.
Importantly, ensure that your home gym has the basic equipment you need prior to getting started. Nothing can derail your progress like discovering you don’t have the materials or space you need to put your plan into practice. If you need ideas, our recent blog introduces five small home gym ideas to get you moving.
2. Practice Accountability & Consistency
Setting goals goes hand in hand with holding yourself accountable for them. Without being motivated by others at a physical gym, it can be easy to skip workouts. Planning your workouts on a calendar will allow you to visually see your goal for the day.
You can feel satisfied either checking off the workout or crossing it off and rescheduling it into your week. This calendar method can also act as a workout journal by seeing all of the workouts you’ve accomplished and what held you back on the days that you veered off course. Sharing your goals and progress with friends and family or joining an online fitness community are other ways to stay on track.
Since it can be hard to find the time to workout, figure out what time of the day works best for you and stay as consistent as possible to that time. Treat your workout time like any other important appointment—non-negotiable and essential to your well-being. The more exercise becomes a daily part of your routine, the more it will become an endorphin- releasing habit, rather than a chore.
3. Dedicate Space & Equipment
One of the challenges of working out at home is the potential for distractions. To combat this, designate a specific area in your home for exercise. It doesn’t have to be a large space—a corner of your living room, a spare room, or even a section of your bedroom can work. Keep your workout equipment, such as dumbbells, resistance bands, and a yoga mat, in this area to make it easier to start your workouts without hesitation. A clutter-free, organized space will help you focus and create a mental separation between workout time and relaxation.
Investing in a few key pieces of equipment can enhance your workouts and get you started. If you have more space and budget, consider adding a bench, kettlebells, cardio machine, or other gym equipment that makes you excited to workout from home. These items are versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises that target different muscle groups. Over time, you can expand your collection as you progress and your fitness goals evolve.
4. Stay Motivated
Variety is important to prevent boredom and keep your body challenged. Incorporate different types of workouts into your routine, such as strength training, cardio, yoga, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). There are plenty of online resources offering free workout videos and programs that cater to all fitness levels. By mixing up your workouts, you’ll not only avoid hitting a plateau but also keep things exciting and fun.
Rewarding yourself for reaching milestones can boost your motivation. Set up a reward system where you treat yourself to something enjoyable after reaching a goal, such as buying new workout gear, enjoying a favorite meal, or taking a relaxing day off. These small rewards can make your fitness journey more enjoyable and give you something to look forward to as you progress.
Final Thoughts to Work Out More from Home
Working out from home can be a convenient and effective way to stay fit and healthy. It requires discipline, motivation, preparation, and patience to successfully build the habit of exercising consistently. By setting clear goals, staying accountable, creating a dedicated workout space with the right equipment, and utilizing rewards and variety to stay motivated, you can make the most of your home workouts!
Always remember to enjoy the process of becoming a healthier, stronger version of yourself. Trying your best and setting yourself up for success with these tips will help you get there. For more info on working out, weight equipment, and fitness, view our blog.