We all have those days where we definitely do NOT feel like sweating it out at the gym. But lazy girls, listen up: you can still work out! You may not totally enjoy getting sweaty or squeezing into a sports bra, but you will love the results that you see when you keep up a regular fitness routine. Here is the ultimate guide to working out without ever leaving your dorm room.
First, you’re probably going to want a workout mat. Now, I get that we’re college students and we’re living on flex dollars and card cash, but a workout mat will really save you from feeling like your butt is one giant bruise once you’re done with the workout I’ve got for you. If you really can’t swing it, a carpet will do just fine. Beggars can’t be choosers, after all.
Find a spot where you have plenty of room, and try to stretch a little before you start working out. Before I do workouts at home, I usually hit the gym or take a walk outside for some cardio. Even on your laziest days, you should do a little something to warm up. 25 jumping jacks or a few minutes of dancing around your room will do the trick.
Workout 1: Sit-Ups
Target: Abs
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Lie down on your back. Stick your feet under something heavy, or have a friend hold them still for you. This will put less strain on your spine when you lift yourself up.
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Cross your fingers behind your head to support your neck.
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Lift up, keeping your abs engaged, so that your chest is parallel to your knees.
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Slowly lower yourself to the starting position.
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Try to do 25-50; it helps build muscles in your lower abs.
Workout 2: Plank Knee-Cross
Target: Abs, Back, & Butt
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For this one, you’re going to need a chair. Start by resting your elbows on the chair, the way you would if you were doing a plank. Keep your toes bent and your legs out straight behind you.
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Lift one leg up, tucking your knee to your chest.
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Lower your leg back to the starting position.
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Repeat with the other leg.
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Do 10-20 reps with each leg. You’ll love the way your butt and abs look after this one.
Workout 3: Lunges
Target: Legs & Butt
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This one’s about as easy as it gets, but you’ll still feel the burn in your legs for days after you’re done. Start by standing straight with your feet spread slightly apart and your hands on your hips.
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Step forward with one foot, keeping your back straight. Bend your knees to a 90-degree angle.
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Return your foot to the starting position.
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Repeat with your other leg.
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Do 20-30 reps with each leg.
Workout 4: Side Lunges
Target: Legs & Abs
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Start in a squat position, with your feet flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
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Step out to the side with one leg, tucking one arm behind your back.
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Lean toward your leg, touching toes with your free hand. This will keep your abs engaged as you twist from side to side.
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Repeat the first three steps, stepping to the opposite side.
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Do 25-35 reps.
Workout 5: Hip Raises
Target: Butt & Abs
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Start with your back and arms flat on the floor and your knees bent.
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Keeping your arms and head flat for balance, lift your hips up, squeezing your butt muscles and your abs as you do.
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Slowly lower back to the starting position.
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Do 20-30 reps. You will definitely feel it in your butt!
And there you have it. A full-body workout in just a few simple moves, no equipment required! When you’re done, you can slip into bed and watch Netflix without feeling guilty about refusing to hit the gym.