We are entering week 6 of the COVID-19 quarantine. The world as we know it has changed. Now more than ever is the time to choose joy. One of our favorite ways to choose joy is by moving our bodies because when we move our bodies, we change our mood and elevate our energy.
You might have had a workout routine before COVID-19, maybe you were going to the gym or attending a fitness class. Since a few weeks ago gyms are close and fitness classes are no longer being offered. The safest way to get moving right now is from the safety of your home. The good news is that you can get a killer workout and even attend a fitness class from the comfort of your house.
You can set up your own home gym with low budget, just including a few pieces of equipment and leveraging apps and websites that offer workout programs and classes that you can scream in your tablet, phone, computer or TV.
Talking about equipment, here are my favorite pieces of equipment to set up a home gym at a low budget.
Yoga mat, not only great if you are planning to do some yoga but great for any workout you need to get on the ground.
Dumbbells, you want to have light, medium and heavier weights. These adjustable ones are a great option. Dumbbells are very versatile, you can do so many different workouts with these.
Balance ball, great for core workouts.
Jumping rope, great for warm ups and getting some cardio in. I personally like the cordless versions, when you are not as coordinated it prevents you from tripping off.
Step, helps take your workouts to the next level, build endurance and strength and improve overall fitness.
Resistance bands, probably one of the most inexpensive pieces of gear you can add to your home gym. They're perfect for sculpting a firm, round booty, shaping your legs and thighs, tightening and flattening your core, and toning your arms and shoulders.
Here are some links to resources to workouts you can do from your living room, basement or garage, or even on your backyard if the weather permits. All these resources are free or have free introductory trials.
Beachbody on Demand - This is what I personally use. I like to describe is at a Netflix of workouts providing streaming access to over 1,100+ workouts, accountability tools, trainer tips, meal plans and more.
Peloton - Their mission is to use technology and design to connect the world through fitness, empowering people to be the best version of themselves, anywhere, anytime. They are now offering 90 days completely free.
Nike Run App - Free app. Track your runs, get coaching that adapts to you, and bring your friends along for the ride.
7-Minute Workout - free high-intensity workout you can do for just 7 minutes using just a chair, a wall, and your body weigh
POPSUGAR Fitness - free tutorials, workouts, and exercises covering all the buzz-worthy workouts
Glo - 15-day free trial of yoga and meditation for busy lifestyles
DownDog App - has made all their apps completely free the entire month. You can choose from hundreds of at-home yoga, HIIT, Barre, and 7-minute workouts.
This article from Glamour lists 31 of the best free fitness apps to try.
Remember, moving your body changes your mood.
Moving your body every day for at least 30 days supports not only your physical health but also your emotional and mental health.