Tips on working out from home

I've always liked doing workouts to get my body toned whether it is at home or at the gym. I went through a period when I only worked out from home for about 6 months before finally joining the gym. Over the last couple of months I started training even harder and eating healthier in order to build a bit of muscle mass. I usually do a mix of gym and at home workouts, where I go to the gym 3 times a week and sometimes add a few extra workouts at home. If you want to keep your body in shape but don't want to pay lots to go to a gym, you can do quite a lot of exercises in the comfort of your own home. Here are some things I would recommend doing for successful workouts at home.

Create Space

An important aspect of any workout is to have enough space to do the necessary movements. You want to be able to jump, as well as lay on your back with enough space to spread your arms. If you can do burpees and kettlebell swings without breaking anything, I'd say that's enough space. 

Gear Up

Just like when you go to the gym, you'd be more motivated to perform your workout if you have some nice looking gymwear on and a pair of nice kicks. Gymwear is available at different prices and so many different styles. If you're looking for something which wouldn't put a hole in your wallet, be sure to check out my post on Affordable Fitness Clothing for Under €15. 

Workout videos/ Printables

In order for your workout to be successful, you need to be prepared. Depending on what you are trying to achieve, research some workouts which are targetted to help you get to your goal. You can find lots of printables and other motivational pins on my Stay Fit Pinterest board. Another easy way to workout is to follow youtube videos. You can check out Rebecca Louise or Fitness Blender to start off, or find others you like.

Equipment

Your workouts don't have to be expensive. You can begin with just a pilates/ yoga mat and do bodyweight exercises, and gradually get some additional equipment. I would recommend getting some weights and a resistance band, which are available at Decathlon or any Fitness store. 

Get rid of distractions

You need to be in the workout mindset and as such need to handle any distractions beforehand. Keep the kids busy with something, give the dog breakfast, put away your mobile phone {unless you are using a mobile app for your workout}. This way, you'll concentrate on your workout and will get the best results.

Music

If you're following printables as opposed to workout videos, you will need some music to get you in the mood. Compile a playlist of music which has good beats and drives you to push harder. 

Mobile apps

If workout videos or printables are not your thing, you can also use mobile apps to find/ build workouts. I've tried quite a few of these including Sworkit, Abs Workout, Workouts and more. These apps usually show you how to perform the specific exercise and some also do the counting, so you don't need to worry about timing yourself. They also have programs which you can tailor to yourself by selecting how many times and on what days you workout, and other details. Some apps require you to sign up while others are just download and use apps.

Get an accountability partner

Now this is something I don't use and recently just found out it's a thing. Basically, it's a family member, friend or social media contact who helps you keep track of your workout. Because the workout is done at home, usually you are only accountable to yourself which means putting it off is very easy, but if you have someone to push you, then the chances of performing your daily workout increase.

Let me know if you have any other tips for working out at home. How do you stay motivated?