(Photo: Kelly Sikkema, Unsplash).
Tom Kalinski, RE/MAX of Boulder
Now that social distancing and closed workout facilities mean we can’t go to the gym, it’s time to freshen our at-home workouts. You don’t need a home gym or workout room to burn those calories – a small space will do. Although if you do have the space, now might be a good time to turn a room into a home gym or exercise room if you foresee selling your home down the road. It will add to perceived value as a differentiator to the “desirability of your home to a certain set of buyers,” according to Realty Times.
For starters, many workout studios are keeping your mojo going with online classes. From yoga studios like CorePower to creative workout locations like Boulder’s Movement Collective, online workout classes are great options.
Or you can forego the screen and stay in shape with these easy-to-use fitness accessories. Here’s inexpensive equipment that you can buy online and doesn’t take up much storage. Check the Internet for guides and tips on how to use these workout aids.
Hit the mat
If you don’t have a yoga mat, now is a good time to get one. It’s good for a yoga or Pilates workout and also core body strengthening floor exercises.
Have fun with a stability ball
These inflatable balls can be used for core, leg and upper body workouts as well as stretching. Stability balls come in various sizes, but the most versatile size is 55 centimeters. Plus, you can sit on it instead of your desk chair. It’s fun to do and some say it’s better for your back.
Pump free weights
For increased toning and strengthening, add weights to your workout. Lighter weights are good for muscle toning. If your goal is to build muscle, go for heavier weights.
Get jumping
If you want to get your heart pumping, grab a jump rope and start spinning it. If you live on the second floor, it may be wise to be courteous and take your jump roping outside. You can also share this toy with your kids.
Get a burn with core sliders
These sliding pads deliver an undeniable workout for the abs. You’ll be surprised how your legs, arms and abs burn with a few reps.
Flex with resistance bands
Address major muscle groups with a range of lengths, resistance levels and sizes.
Roll on a foam roller
To help with those sore muscles, get a foam roller. Rolling your body on this applies pressure to tight muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A great finishing touch to a workout, foam rolling can improve blood flow and flexibility and relax sore muscles.
Keep it clean
It’s always important to keep your home fitness equipment clean. Today disinfecting your equipment is more important than ever. Spray your equipment down with a disinfectant spray and wipe it dry when you’re finished.
For storage, most of this equipment will fit easily in your closet between workouts.
With these aids and a little sweat, you’ll feel and look great without leaving home. And when this “stay-at-home” period ends – as it surely will – you’ll be in great shape and have a new routine that’s easy and low cost to keep up.
• For the full story see: https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/essential-equipment-home-workout/
• The Small-Space Workout Challenge: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/20/realestate/home-workout-space.html
• Does Adding A Gym In Your Home Add Any Value? https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1014319-20180126-does-adding-a-gym-in-your-home-add-any-value
By Tom Kalinski. Tom is the broker/owner of RE/MAX of Boulder, the local residential real estate company he established in 1977. He was inducted into Boulder County’s Business Hall of Fame in 2016 and has a 40-year background in commercial and residential real estate. For questions, e-mail Tom at [email protected], call 303.441.5620 or visit boulderco.com
