Gym memberships aren't cheap, and sometimes the only way that you're going to have enough time to exercise is by fitting it in at home. Spending money on a membership can be extra motivation to go, but working out at home can be just as good of an option, even with very little equipment. Plus, for beginners, it's a great way to improve your fitness in the comfort of your own home - and with everyone wanting to incorporate a little more activity into their lives after making new years resolutions, here are some of my top tips for getting the most effective workouts at home.
1. Some new sportswear - Nothing is more motivation to get your sweat on than some shiny new fitness gear. Nike do an amazing range, and you pick it up from shops like JD Sports for a fraction of the price. I love their sports bras as they are so comfortable and supportive, and the leggings are so comfortable and great at keeping you the perfect temperature. Plus, with motivational logos like 'Just Do It' you're guaranteed to be inspired to workout!
2. Trainers - A pair of trainers specifically targeted to the type of workout you are doing make all the difference. I recently got a a pair of Nike Free Run 5.0's from Millets - again, they have great offers on their products - and I've really noticed a difference, particularly in my shins being less painful. Giving your ankles the proper support is so important and will really improve the quality of your training. The Free Runs are specifically designed for running, but also great for HIIT workouts and I'm honestly in love with my pair - plus, they've become quite a fashion staple for me too!
3. Mat and Weights - You may not need a lot of equipment to work out with at home, but I would say that these two are pretty much essentials. My mat is from Warrior and is so comfortable, especially for ab exercises where you have to lie on your back a lot, and weights are a great thing to add to your workouts to increase resistance and make your muscles work a little harder. There's a great misconception that using weights will make you bulk up as a woman, but this really isn't true, and people should definitely be less afraid of using them! Work your way up and use something that tires you out by the last couple of repetitions.
4. Entertainment - I love having something to focus on when I'm exercising so I don't get too bored. If I don't know the routine that I'm doing, obviously I will go through it first, but after that, a bit of youtube or a good series (ahem, Vampire Diaries) keeps me entertained and the workout go much faster.
5. Videos - Finally, you're going to need a routine. I'm not enough of a fitness expert myself to know what moves to put together, so I like to watch workout videos online instead. Blogilates is one of my favourites for something low intensity, or when I want something a little more hard-core I love the 30 Day Shred and Insanity as well.