Getting Fit at Home

While the country is beginning to open up and we are starting to taste a “kind of” normality after months of lockdown conditions, there are still many gym-goers who are feeling displaced right about now – stranded with nowhere to grow.

And while not everyone can afford their own hi-tech, heart-monitoring, calorie-crushing equipment to help them get through the gym closures, that doesn’t for a second mean that you can’t experience a solid workout from home with minimum equipment.

Here are some tips for getting fit while the gyms are out of order.

1.       Make your own weights.

There are plenty of things to lift around the house, but one of the most effective tools for working your arms is the simple gallon water bottle. Simply fill it to your desired weight with water and use handles to lift.

2.       Track your steps.

Using a FitBit or smartphone app, you can track every single step you take throughout the day. Try to aim for 10,000 steps per day and work your way up to improve your cardiovascular fitness.

3.       Recruit an exercise partner.

You don’t have to be in the same room to reap the benefits of having an exercise partner, you don’t even have to exercise at the same time. You just need someone to help keep you accountable for your daily exercise.

4.       Set goals.

Challenge yourself every single day, but be realistic. Don’t burn yourself out early with overly-strenuous workouts, and remember to have break days in-between. Your goals could be short term, like walking 10,000 steps every day for two weeks, or long term, like lose 20 lbs in two months.

5.       Track your progress.

Keep a fitness diary with your starting weight, goal weight, and all of the exercises you do each day to achieve it. Add in your notes how you felt on a particular day, how you are progressing, and the new ways you are challenging yourself.

6.       Consult the experts.

Did you know that many gyms in Wicklow are offering personal training services that allow you to work from home? Trainers will set you up with meal and exercises plans, and they’ll check in on your regularly for updates on your progress. It’s one way to keep motivated!

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Ready to get back in the game? We’re right behind you. Use this article as a starting point to your fitness journey, but remember to put some in-depth research into the best fitness routine for you, and make sure to talk to a trainer if you need help.