With both snow and the temperature falling fast, it may be common to feel bogged down by the chaos of the changing seasons. Jobs, homework, friends, family and traveling can cause a multitude of stress. However, bearing the cold to make that trip to the gym for a run on the treadmill or an intense lifting session may not be totally necessary. We have some alternative, yet fun ways to mix up your basic gym workouts without paying that membership fee or freezing your toes off.
Kayla Itsines SWEAT App
Kayla Itsines, an Australian trainer, has created multiple workouts and meal plans for people all over the world to follow to not only look good, but feel good. While the app is free, there is a small charge each month for your daily workouts and meal plan. These workouts are more interactive and offer a wide range of activities to engage in that target multiple areas throughout the human body in just 30 minutes. Circuit training consists of four workouts and to do as many reps as possible in seven minutes (expect to sweat!). High and low intensity workouts are for longer periods of time and emphasize cardio training. There is something for everyone with the app, so grab your yoga mat, some dumbbells and your favorite workout playlist for these fun workouts through your smartphone or laptop, all in the comfort of your own home!
Dancing/Zumba
While this may be a little out of people’s comfort zones, it will definitely make up for an amazing cardio session. Channel your inner rockstar and pick out your favorite pop, hip hop or R&B songs to move around to. We also recommend looking up dance routines or tutorials to your favorite songs, and when there is not one you like, you can always improvise. There is also a wide variety of dance styles you can choose to incorporate into workout like jazz, ballet, hip hop or modern. If you need some guidance, head over to POPSUGAR fitness on YouTube, where you’ll find a range of fitness courses–including zumba! You will stay on your toes, learn multiple ways to choreograph and perform, while getting your stamina going the whole routine.
Yoga
Looking for a workout that may not make you a sweat instantly, but will burn some calories? Yoga is a great solution and compromise to an alternative gym workout. Yoga increases flexibility, stress levels and gets your heart rate up while keeping you sane. Also, yoga is a great and relaxing workout you can perform right in the comfort of your own home. Lisette Rodriguez ’18 says that she enjoys yoga “because it is mentally, physically and spiritually centering. It gives me the chance to calm my mind.” You can pick various yoga poses from different yoga instructors through different channels on tv or online. Yoga with Adriene is a popular YouTube channel offering the perfect 30-day introduction to anyone who is new to the world of yoga. Namaste!
