At Home Exercises That Work Like a Charm
By Genevieve Cunningham
Everyone knows that exercise is important, but we don't always have the time to make it to the gym. For some people, this means giving up exercise altogether. For others, it means getting a little bit creative. If you don't have time for the gym, but you'd still like to work out everyday, take a look at these at-home exercises that work like a charm.
The Move: Squats
Squats are timeless. To do a proper squat, you’ll stand with your feet roughly shoulder width apart. Bend at the knees, being careful not to let the knees go too far in front of the feet. Rock back until the weight is in the heels. Bend until the thighs are parallel with the ground and then slowly come back up.
Does It Work?
Squats work so well. They’ll tone the thighs and the backside, and may even help develop other muscles in the legs. They’re versatile, as you can change the foot position and completely change the squat. You can do these at home, and if you’re feeling ambitious can even add weights to make them more challenging.
The Move: Push-Ups
Everyone knows about push-ups. These can be done anywhere, as you don’t use anything except your body weight. To do a push-up, you’ll start by lying face first on the ground. Place your hands underneath your shoulders and keep the rest of the body as flat as a table. Push up using the arms and chest muscles. Lower yourself slowly, and repeat.
Does It Work?
Push-ups can work the chest, arms, abs, and even the back. But there’s a catch. Most people do not do a push-up properly, and this might keep you from seeing results. Work on form over quantity, and you’ll likely see some positive results in the future.
The Move: Plank
The plank is all about the abs. To do a plank, you’ll lie on the ground as if you were doing a push-up. Place the hands under the shoulders, push-up, but instead of lowering yourself, you’ll hold the “up” position. Hold for 30 seconds to one minute, and then rest.
Does It Work?
Planks work well as long as you keep the back straight. They’ll make your arms tired, but more than that, they’ll strengthen and tone the abdomen. Again, focus on form, as this is the only way to get the most benefit from the plank.
Even if you can't make it to the gym, that's no excuse for skipping the exercise. Just clear a spot in your own house, use these moves, and work out in the comfort of your own home. With some creativity and a little dedication, you may be able to sculpt and enjoy the best body of your life.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Summerville, S.C.