Workout classes are a staple in the lives of many, and it’s no surprise why. The pumping music, ambient lighting, and energy that flows through the studio all contribute to an environment that keeps members coming back.
However, studios and gyms around the world have recently had to close their doors because of the coronavirus pandemic. Because social distancing is key to preventing the virus’ spread, clients and members of studios have found themselves adjusting to life without group exercise. Thankfully, technological advancements and social sharing platforms have made us more connected than ever, and given us the means to connect with our favorite gym and studio communities from afar.
If you’re craving the full experience of your favorite class or studio, here are a few ways that you can bring the boutique experience to your at-home workouts.
No home workout experience will be as distraction-free as a studio. But you can help limit the amount of interruptions that may come in the middle of your workout.
First, put away your phone.
Before your yoga sessions or pilates workouts, you might typically store your phone in a locker or cubby. Think about using that same mindset for your home workouts and turn off your notifications. That way, if you’re streaming your class on your phone you won’t be distracted by incoming calls or texts. You may find that doing this is an extra incentive to block out a full hour or half hour for your workout.
Next, block out a time for your workout on the calendar. Make sure to schedule it when you can fully focus on exercising without fear of interruptions.
Make sure you have all the equipment you need for the workout by your side so you don’t have to find anything in the middle of a class.
There are plenty of workouts that don’t need any special equipment. Barre classes, yoga sessions, and HIIT workouts are some that you could try using only the weights around your house, or a towel. We created a list of studios and gyms who are offering free on-demand workouts.
Read the List of On-Demand Fitness Options
Many of these workouts are built for you to do without equipment, but you can also substitute any tools they may call for with household items such as wine bottles in place of dumbbells, or a milk jug in place of a kettlebell. Get creative!
Music is a big way that studios create immersive environments for their workouts. After all, what would a HIIT class look like with music playing quietly in the background? Search Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, or Youtube for energizing workout playlists that will keep you moving and motivated during your class.
If you have an old elliptical in your basement or a spare set of weights in the back of the closet, now is the time to use them! Building your workout around your equipment is a great way to take advantage of what you already have, and allows you to incorporate more variety into your classes.
If you have cardio equipment that you can use to follow along with virtual training sessions, you’re in luck. There are dozens of streaming platforms that offer on-demand running, rowing, and cycling workouts.
For example, if you have an indoor bike at home, check out the Peloton app for high-quality instructor led classes. Follow along with their motivational and engaging workouts, and don’t forget to convert your bike mode’s resistance levels to the Peloton levels to ensure you’re getting the most out of your session.
We created easy to follow conversion tables that you can use while following along to Peloton’s hundreds of cycling classes. This makes it easy to convert between their target exertion levels and your own!
Download the Free Peloton Conversion Guide
By creating an optimal workout environment and building your session around the equipment you have, you’ll certainly get the most out of your home exercise experience. We hope these tips and suggestions help you stay fit, happy, and healthy until we can be back at our favorite studios and gyms.
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