5 Hidden Benefits of an At-Home Fitness Practice

Are you the person who never wants to work out but never regrets it afterward? Or maybe you absolutely need your daily workout to get through the day but can't find the time to get to the gym. Some folks don't feel safe in fitness classes due to injuries or discomforts. Or you could be like me—finding it too expensive out there! No matter who you are, an at-home fitness practice is for you!

I like to think of my fitness routine as a practice—something to return to. The purpose of practice is to work toward optimal success.

Imagine rolling out of bed, slipping into your slippers, and trudging to the kitchen to make your morning coffee (or insert your morning drink). You pull your hair back, put on a cute workout fit (or not!), and take a few steps to your studio space oasis. This has changed my life and regulated my nervous system in so many ways.

Let’s pause for a moment to talk about this “studio space oasis.” I live in a 750 sq. ft. studio apartment in Harlem, NYC. Within this small space is an even smaller gem—a walk-in closet that is 5 by 6 square feet! For further imagery, there are two deep, spacious closets inside this small closet with doors that close. The width of the space is the exact size of a standard yoga mat—kismet. I added my resistance bands and weights, foam roller, LED humidifier, small space heater, a stool, and an overhead phone holder. I hope this inspires you to cultivate an oasis that meets your desires—whether it’s a closet, a corner in your bedroom, or the garage. Lighting is key!

Ryan is having a sauna experience. He loves it!

One hidden benefit of an at-home fitness practice is intimacy. You can wear what you want and look how you want! For me, I like to put on a cute workout outfit for the vibes, but when I’m bleeding, I opt for something more spacious and comfortable. Another layer of intimacy is the level of self-motivation it takes to show up—literally just for yourself. To speak kindly to yourself and be your own motivation.

Another hidden benefit is the freedom and flexibility to personalize your workout to your daily rhythm and needs. Maybe the best time of day to work out is 11 a.m.—not a very popular time for fitness classes. Or maybe you can only work out at 7 a.m.—the busiest time at most gyms.

An at-home fitness routine also gives you plenty of room for creativity. Unlike structured gym classes, where the exercises are planned out for you, at home you have the freedom to create your own flow. You can mix and match different styles of movement based on how you’re feeling—combine a bit of yoga with strength training, or try a dance workout and then cool down with stretching. The beauty of working out at home is the ability to experiment with your body and your environment. Have fun and get creative with props like resistance bands, yoga blocks, chairs, and steps.

Where are my world travelers and bi-coastal folks? Having an at-home fitness practice makes it easier to stay consistent when traveling or away from home. Props like resistance bands, 1 lb. ankle weights, sliders, and a Pilates ball are versatile and light enough to travel without taking up much space. Imagine doing the same yoga practice from your closet studio on a beach facing the sunrise, or on top of a mountain overlooking the east.

And I think the most popular benefit of having an at-home fitness practice is that it saves money and time, and that is no secret. 

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