One of the biggest excuses people make for not exercising is not being able to find the time. And it’s true that many of us lead busy lives.
Add to this the fact that you can’t just get up and exercise at any given moment. After all, exercising requires a change of clothing, possibly a trip to the gym, the gathering of the right equipment and you can’t just exercise anywhere…or can you?
Read on to find out about five low maintenance exercises you can do anywhere.
#1 Lunges
Lunges are said to be one of the most effective exercises. Not only do they work multiple muscles in the legs, you can also move your arms while doing them to provide a full body workout.
If you don’t care too much about what people think, you can do lunges just about anywhere, even when walking down the street. Need a break at work? Get up and do some lunges right in your office.
#2 Squats
Squats are another exercise that targets the leg muscles as well as the booty and the core. When we think of how often we squat each day, it should be a no-brainer that this exercise is one we can do anywhere. Going to sit on the couch or the office chair? Hold it for a few seconds to see how it impacts your muscles.
Take it to the next level by bouncing up and down lightly while in a squatting position.
#3 Leg Lifts
Leg lifts strengthen the glutes which in turn provides support for the back, core and hips.
When we think of leg lifts, there are many variations we can do, but here’s one that is pretty easy to pull off just about anywhere.
To perform this type of leg lift, stand in front of a countertop and hold on to it for balance. Tap one foot behind you and exhale to lift your leg off the floor while squeezing your glutes.
Try lifting it 15 times and then holding it and pulsing 15 times. Make sure your hips are squared to the countertop.
#4 Planking
Planking is an exercise that merely requires that your body is in a straight line from your head to your toes. It can be performed while you’re lying on the floor watching TV and even on some firmer couches.
But did you know planking can also be done while you’re in the upright position?
To do this, get up on your toes and keep your hips inline with your spine. Tilt your chin away from your chest keeping your neck long and take some deep breaths.
A standing plank is so subtle, it can be done almost anywhere without attracting too much attention.
#5 Triceps Dips
These are easy to do when you need a quick pick me up at the office.
If you are starting in sitting position, put your hands on the edge of your seat and move your body so you are off the chair. Continue supporting yourself with your hands and arms. Your legs will be out in front of you with the backs of your heels on the ground and your body will be in a kind of open ‘L’ position.
Gradually drop to the floor so you are almost sitting upright but don’t let your buttocks completely touch the floor.
Return to your original open L position and repeat as desired.
If you want to exercise more but feel overwhelmed trying to find the right time and place, worry no more. These low maintenance exercises provide a great workout and they can be done in the comfort of your home, in the office and even while you are walking down the street. What anywhere exercises do you like to incorporate into your day?
