Last week, I wrote that there are usually a ton of new gym members at the beginning of the year. They usually sign up for an annual membership, but stop coming to the gym in February or early March. They continue paying with the full intent of returning after “a few weeks off”.
This year isn’t repeating that normal process. There are very few new sign-ups to the gym I go to. I can’t speak to other clubs, but I would suspect it to be the same. I hope those folks who didn’t join a gym (health club) this year will find the time and take the effort to exercise at home.
On a similar note, a long time reader of this blog, and gym buddy, suggested I write something for those, like him, who have not returned to the gym and don’t plan on returning soon. He suggested that others may be interested in how people like him are staying in shape. Here’s his method:
“I have my wife’s TOTAL GYM to work out on, plus some exercise bands, one set of bar bells, a BOSU and various things I’ve improvised. I also skip up and down my driveway in the mornings before it gets light. I like that because my neighbors can’t see me.”
I’ve never used the TOTAL GYM, but from what others have told me, it is an excellent piece of equipment for home exercise. Exercise bands are an excellent tool. They are quite inexpensive and available at big box stores like Target or Walmart. Bar bells can be expensive and if you have the other equipment mentioned above, you probably won’t need them. A BOSU (half ball with flat surface to stand on) is great for balance but there are other methods without going to the expense of the BOSU. They are an excellent tool but are not inexpensive.
As for skipping up and down the driveway, don’t laugh. Skipping is an excellent exercise. I think it can be better than running or walking. One of the top of the line Boot Camp style fitness programs in the area has their men and women skipping down major roads at 7:00 in the morning as part of their very intense adult exercise program. It provides balance, raises your heart rate, heavy breathing and all the benefits of fast walking. If skipping is not your “thing”, then go for walking, particularly if you are older and your knees are starting to get a bit wobbly.
Another good home exercise tool is the “As seen on TV” Ab Roller. Remember that? It provides a great abdominal muscle workout, but if you are just starting out, simple “plank” exercises are probably better to begin with.
So, if you are a gym member who plans to stay at home a little bit longer, or a novice with resolutions but wants to wait to sign up for a gym membership, or maybe someone who just wants to exercise at home, there are a lot of things you can do. I’ve covered one person’s response here.
That same reader added: “I bet many of your fans have come up with some very innovative ways of keeping in shape all through this pandemic.” I would be interested in hearing some of them. I don’t have a comments section but you can email your thoughts to me anytime at bob@thecomealiveproject.com.
Get healthy, fit, and full of energy in 2021. Make it a good year. Move your body, eat well, and enjoy life. Thank you for reading.