Stay in to work out

By Lucia Blash on October 23, 2008 2:29 PM |

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Not making the most of that expensive gym membership?

Why not cut costs by devising a home workout that ticks all the boxes without breaking the bank.

This week we offer tips on formulating a cash-lite plan that should get you healthier in no time.

Invest in the bare minimum. You don’t need a multi-gym or a treadmill. The bare minimum consists a resistance band or two and a Swiss ball.

These pieces of kit will enable you to work on balance, core stability and buff each and every muscle group.

Use household items. Tins of beans, bags of sugar and, if you’re strong, sacks of spuds provide ample weight for exercises such as bicep curls and tricep extensions.

Use bulkier items to bench-press on the sofa in front of EastEnders.

Get your heart beating. In the midst of excitement over lifting tins of beans, don’t forget your fat burning cardio.

Run up and down the stairs, walk around the garden, skip in the conservatory in order to really work your cardiovascular system.

Seek guidance. A personal trainer is the best option for getting the right guidance for the perfect home workout – but not if you’re on a cost-cutting mission.

Invest in a home workout guide from Amazon; trawl the internet for home workout ideas (there are literally hundreds); or treat yourself to a subscription to a fitness magazine.

Don’t forget your flexibility. You won’t get very far with tight, sore muscles so make sure your workout gear includes a mat and towel, a foam roller and plenty of stretchy bands.

Regular stretching can also help to counteract some of the effects of sitting at a desk all day.