Fall brings changing leaves, everything pumpkin spice, and of course, the return of our favorite shows (and the start of many new!). If you’re spending more time indoors, don’t fret about missing your workout—just relocate to your living room.
Working out while watching TDS TV is a great example of multitasking—and one that may actually yield productivity. During the actual show, the program can distract you from your painful plank or challenging crunch. But if that’s too much to handle, your exercises can be fit into the two or three minute commercial break—making it a challenge with a reward in sight.
So, next time you skip the gym, get off the couch and try some of these easy-to-learn and effective exercises.
- The plank. The most effective way to do this is by staying in an upward push-up position for 30 seconds, totally engaging the core. This can certainly be done in intervals throughout commercial breaks. Mixing it up through both plank twists and side planks can work more of the body.
- Squats. We often see this exercise done with large weights, but it also works with our body weight. Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width and sit down lower than you would in a chair. Add a pause at the bottom for an extra burn.
- Lunges. These can also be done with or without weights. A static lunge, which involves dropping the back knee down, is one of the best ways to engage the hips, glutes, and thighs.
- Push-ups. These are great upper body exercises to fit in during commercials. If the regular push-up is too difficult, starting with wall and incline push-ups is helpful. As you progress, it will be easy to see your strength increase.
- Stretching. Just because you’re not at the gym doesn’t mean you don’t need to rehab your muscles after your workout. Revert to your normal stretching routine, or switch it up with some other methods. Stretching it also a great way to relieve stress and wind-down from the
day.
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it is a good place to start to exercise your legs, arms, and core—all while watching your favorite show(s).
By Morgan Grunow
