Bad weather doesn't have to stop you from getting in your exercise! The next time the weather has you stuck inside, remember these fun ideas to be active at home.
1. Walk around your home
To pass the time, talk on the phone with friends or family or listen to music or audiobooks.
2. Walk around an indoor public space
For example, you can walk the perimeter of a grocery store or inside a mall, or take the stairs instead of the elevator.
3. Try a free online exercise video
There are many free exercise tutorials online with various styles to try.
4. Put on music and have a dance party
This can be a fun activity for the whole family! Make sure you have enough space to move around freely.
5. Try circuit training
Circuit training is a simple way to work out at home. Just pick a few simple exercises, such as push-ups, jumping jacks, and planks and do them each for a short time, and then start over. The American Heart Association suggests, "Alternate cardio and strength exercises in short bursts of 30 seconds and 3 minutes, then repeat the circuit two to three times."
6. Do active household chores
Walk around while you put things away, vacuum, stand while folding laundry, dust on high and low shelves, etc.
7. Use items around your home to do strength-training activities
You can use soup cans as hand weights. Try a gallon jug of water or a bag of dog food for heavier options.
8. Stretch
Stretching is good for your muscles! Try touching your toes or doing hamstring stretches.
9. Jump rope
Jumping rope is a fun way to get your heart pumping!
10. Play a relay game
Create 4-5 stations with different activities. Try walking in place, jumping jacks, toe touches, push-ups, and more. Get the whole family involved and take turns picking out activities. Get a little competitive. Try a "Who Can Do the Most" (jumping jacks, squats, push-ups, etc.) Challenge.
If you have a health problem or have not been active in a while, contact your healthcare provider to make sure it is safe for you to be more physically active.