The Secret to a Great At-Home Workout Routine

By Matilda Davies

We’d all like to say we’re more disciplined about our workout routines. Hitting the gym multiple times a week can be a challenge between work, social obligations, what needs to be done at home, and the basic need for some good rest and relaxation.

Starting a home workout practice, though, can be the key to staying fit even when you’re short on time and motivation. But distractions at home—the dishes that need to be done, the TV show you’d like to watch, your partner or spouse or even your kids—can keep you from keeping up a great workout routine.

The secret to a great home workout routine

A routine means consistency, and that consistency can be achieved at home.

The secret to a great at-home workout routine is having the right space to make it happen. This doesn’t mean you need to have a state-of-the-art gym full of machines and free weights and a wall of mirrors. It doesn’t mean you need the most expensive gear or clothes, either. The kind of space you need is one that when you’re there—your only job is to work out.

How to create a workout space at home

Whether you prefer pilates, yoga, aerobics, weight-lifting, biking, or running on a treadmill, having a designated space is key to creating the mental space required for a satisfying workout.

If you aren’t able to dedicate an entire room as a workout space, try using a guest room or an office for this purpose. When you’re in that space with your workout clothes on, your job is to get in a great workout—and that’s all. If you’re short on space, a part or even a corner of a room will do. I like to use one corner of my guest bedroom for my yoga routine. I shut the door, light a candle, put on some music, and get the job done.

If you want to soak in some vitamin D, you can even designate a portion of your patio or lawn for your exercise routine. Wherever that space may be—facilitating exercise is its sole purpose.

Other ways to motivate yourself to workout at home

If you still need more help getting into the groove of a home workout routine, here are some bonus tips.

Binge-watch a great show: You can run on a treadmill a lot longer if you can get lost in a great new series.

Get into a great podcast: Save the podcast only for your workouts so you find yourself going back for more.

Enlist a friend: Call a friend or involve a family member so you have a buddy for the workout.

Reward yourself: If you have something great to look forward to, chances are you’ll be more likely to maintain consistency in your routine.

 

Author bio:

Matilda lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she is a contributing writer for House Method where she writes about health and wellness. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, hiking, and walking her dogs.