Busy schedules, limited finances and bad weather are the mortal enemies of even the best laid fitness plans. As such, many people are looking into the possibility of home-based fitness and weight-loss programs. Of course, apartment dwellers may be limited by the kindness, or lack thereof of their neighbors, but this small detail should not discourage you. With a bit of creativity, you can devise home weight-loss workouts for either apartments or private homes. Perform workouts for a minimum of 20 minutes. The American College of Sports Medicine suggests that you perform aerobic activity on most days of the week.
Step Up to Fitness
If it was good enough for Rocky, it should be good enough for you. Apartment dwellers have an advantage in this situation, especially those who live in multistory buildings. Avoid the crowded elevators, and take the stairs. Even if you don't live on the top floor, consider climbing to the top for added benefits. If you have no staircases, use a small, sturdy bench for step aerobics. You can also purchase a smaller version of the studio step, which is suitable for home use.
Wii Fit
The growing obsession with video games has, for some, lead to a growing waistline circumference. Now, thanks to Nintendo, it's possible to combine your game with your workout. In fact, for sport-mined individuals, Nintendo's Wii Fit can help improve athletic skill while providing an effective weight loss workout. Wii Fit has programs designed for aerobic conditioning, as well as sport specific training. It involves standing on a specialized balance board, while watching the program on the screen. You can perform ski jumps, step aerobics or work out on an imaginary hula hoop. The Wii gives you a calorie readout at the end of each workout.
Dance
Put on your favorite music and dance. Try to maintain the activity for at least 20 minutes. Dancing barefoot or in socks will improve balance, proprioception and your relationship with your downstairs neighbors.
Tag, You're It!
A backyard game of tag is a fun way to burn calories. If you don't have kids, ask your neighbor if you can borrow some. Chasing your dog around the yard is an acceptable substitute.
Aerobic DVDs
There are a number of aerobic exercise DVDs you can use at home. Some are low impact, so they will not disturb neighbors. Choosing a variety of DVDs will prevent burnout.
Strength Training
Strength training exercise can increase resting metabolic rate, which can enhance weight loss. Combine stability ball exercises with resistance bands to create a home gym. The ball can also be used for various seated, low impact aerobic exercises, such as seated jumping jacks and cancan kicks.
Bathtub Aerobics
While your days of frolicking in the tub with rubber ducky may be behind you, MTI Whirlpools' Jentle Tread hydrotherapy tub can bring back bathtub fun, while helping you burn a few extra calories. The tub uses the resistance of the gushing water to create a low-impact workout.
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