The idea of staying at home for work, school, and exercise has become more and more prevalent nowadays. While gyms and fitness studios are ideal for staying in shape, many students in Ohio University off-campus housing may not have the ability to rush off to a gym for a number of different reasons. But skipping exercise routines isn’t the best idea, especially for a college student. Exercise does a lot more than help you stay fit. It can help boost your immune system and keep you from getting sick. Regular exercise can help you stay focused and energized. In fact, exercise can also help fight off stress and balance your mood. Needless to say, you can’t give up on your workout regimen! That’s why it’s important to have a few different exercises you can do while you’re in your apartment.
Planks
The plank is a strength-building position that works your entire body and doesn’t demand that much skill or practice to perfect it. To get into the traditional high plank position, begin by getting down on your knees into a tabletop pose with your arms positioned directly under your shoulders. Make sure your weight is evenly distributed over your knees and hands. Then, tuck your toes and raise your hips to put your body into a push-up prep position. Instead of doing a push-up, you simply hold this position for a count of ten breaths. Be sure to bring awareness to your core, hips, and legs to make sure they’re not sinking towards the floor. Keep your body as straight as possible. Repeat three to four times. You can also try different variations of planks such as side planks when you turn your body to one side and lift one arm while balancing on the other.
Squats
Squats are a classic move that can help you lose weight and build muscle in your legs and glutes. First, stand with your legs hip-width apart and focus on straightening your spine by picturing one vertebra on top of the other. Then, with a straight spine and your hands on your hips, begin to squat down as if you’re about to sit on an invisible chair. When your thighs are parallel to the ground, lift your weight back up to a standing position. For beginners, repeat this move 10 times for about 3 rounds. As you develop more strength, you can increase to 15-20 squats per round.
Burpees
The burpee is a fitness guru favorite that works your entire body and really gets the heart pumping. If you’ve mastered the plank and the squat, you can definitely do a burpee because this exercise is basically a combination of the other two moves. Begin standing with your legs hip-width apart. Start to move into a squat position, but instead of pushing your body back up into a standing position, place your hands on the ground under your shoulders. Then, move your legs out into a plank position. Do one push-up, then bring your feet back to your hands, move into a standing position, and jump. Repeat 5-10 times for beginners.
Your home can easily be turned into a workout space! If you’re looking for an Ohio University apartment in Athens, with more room to work out, contact the pros at Wharton Rentals.
