While most are stuck at home and can’t go to the gym, home workouts are more popular than ever. While sweating it out in your living room may seem like a great way to fit in a workout, sometimes it’s not as great as you had hoped. That neighbor downstairs may not appreciate the noises that come along with all those jumping jacks, sprints, and even lunges. Here are some quiet workout routines that help you skip the trip to the gym without giving up on your goals.
Consider Your Space
Before investing in any workout equipment or accessories, make sure you are aware of your surroundings and what is and isn’t acceptable. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Do you have enough space for workout equipment?
- Do others live under you? Will your workouts make noise and bother them?
- Do you have a roommate who wants to keep common areas clear?
Skip Running Exercises
If you are living in an apartment, you should save jumping, skipping and running exercises for the outdoors or the gym. Jumping jacks, sprints, and even lunges are often too noisy for apartment life, especially late at night. Sticking with slow and deliberate movements like pilates, and mild weightlifting can burn calories without much sound.
Grab a Yoga Mat
If you’re short on space, or just want to simplify your routine, grab a yoga mat and find your zen. There are lots of free YouTube videos that can help you navigate through yoga and stretching routines. A yoga mat is also ideal for pushups and pretty much any ab exercise you can think of.
Buy a Set of Free Weights
A full-sized weight bench creates plenty of clanks and other noises during a workout. Light free weights like dumbbells and kettlebells are much quieter, especially when you use them over a foam pad. These lighter exercise tools are also less likely to damage your apartment floors if you accidentally drop them than heavier weight sets.
Try Body Weight and Isometric Exercises
Exercises relying on your own body weight tend to generate less noise than exercise equipment. For example, doing crunches or pull-ups on a simple doorway bar can build strength without causing any noise. But, be sure it’s suitable for your apartment. Not all can be placed in a door frame without causing damage to your unit.
Try New Cardio Techniques
Running in place or jumping rope may offer indoor cardio exercise, but both of these techniques tend to cause quite a bit of noise for the neighbors below you. Low-impact cardio workouts that rely on squats, twists, and kicks are much quieter.
Establish a Routine
It’s challenging to stay on any workout routine without a set schedule. Leave yourself some flexibility, but structure your days for success. Consider a mid-day break or evening workout. That can help prevent boredom and feelings of isolation from social distancing.
Have you been working out in your apartment? What tips do you have for beginners?