When it comes to working out, a lot of people have the same complaint: time. There isn’t enough of it. But there are so many ways that exercise promotes wellness and healing in our bodies, that it’s not something we should ever let fall by the wayside.
Luckily there is now tons of evidence to show that you don’t need an hour-long sweat sesh in order to appreciate some of the great benefits that come with regular exercise.
If you’re running short on time, just lay down a few sets of these 5 quick exercises and you’ll be good to go!
Reverse Lunge + Knee-Up
Begin by standing with feet together, hands on hips or clasped in front of you. Step the right foot back, bend both knees to a 90 degree angle (knee almost touches the ground), then stand up and kick that right knee in front of you. Return to starting. Do 10 on each side.
Lay Down Pushup
Start on your belly and extend your arms forward like Superman. Tap fingertips down, then pull your hands back by your ribs. Push straight up into a pushup. Lower with control back to your belly, and repeat. Do 10 total.
Straight Leg Raise + Hip Lift
Begin on your back, hands palms down beneath your booty. With control and from your core, raise both legs straight up in the air. Now imagine the ceiling is just right there above you, and lift your hips off the ground to touch the imaginary ceiling with your toes. Do 12 reps.
Glute Bridge
Lying on your back, bend your knees and bring the soles of the feet to the floor. Bring your heels as close to your booty as you can. Hands palms-down by the hips. Exhale and push your feet into the ground, lifting your hips toward the ceiling. See if you can lift your hips so high that you can’t see your knees. Inhale to release back to starting. Do 15 total.
X-Climber
Begin in a plank, or a high pushup position. Bring your right knee across your body and try to touch your left elbow with it. Return to starting. Repeat on the other side, trying to get your left knee to your right elbow or tricep. Do 20 reps total, 10 each knee.
That’s it! Just these five moves will target your whole body, there’s a little bit of everything for arms, legs and abs too.
This is also a great routine to start with if you’re just getting into working out. You can do all at once or intersperse them throughout the day to bring your focus back to fitness. Enjoy!
