Life can be hectic, and finding the time to get to the gym can be challenging.
However, it’s important to make exercise a priority in your routine, as it has numerous health benefits such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving mental health, and helping with weight management. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend hours at the gym to get a complete workout. Here are five exercises that you can do in just a few minutes.
1. Burpees
The burpee is a total body exercise that combines a squat, plank, and jump. It’s a high-intensity exercise that gets your heart rate up quickly, making it an efficient option for those short on time. To do a burpee, follow these steps:.
- Begin in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Squat down and place your hands on the floor in front of you.
- Jump your feet back so that you are in a plank position.
- Do a push-up (optional).
- Jump your feet back towards your hands so that you are in a squat position.
- Jump up into the air, reaching your hands towards the ceiling.
- Land softly on the ground and repeat.
Do as many burpees as you can in one minute, rest for 30 seconds, and repeat for a total of three sets.
2. Squat Jumps
Squat jumps are another high-intensity exercise that is great for a quick workout. They work your legs, glutes, and core, and also get your heart rate up. To do a squat jump, follow these steps:.
- Begin in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Squat down, keeping your weight in your heels and your chest lifted.
- Jump up as high as you can, reaching your hands towards the ceiling.
- Land softly on the ground in a squat position.
- Repeat.
Do as many squat jumps as you can in one minute, rest for 30 seconds, and repeat for a total of three sets.
3. Push-Ups
Push-ups are a classic exercise that works your chest, triceps, and shoulders. They can be done anywhere and require no equipment, making them a great option for a quick workout. To do a push-up, follow these steps:.
- Begin in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Lower your body down towards the ground, keeping your elbows close to your body.
- Push yourself back up to the starting position.
- Repeat.
Do as many push-ups as you can in one minute, rest for 30 seconds, and repeat for a total of three sets.
4. Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers are a cardio exercise that works your core, shoulders, and legs. They also improve your balance and coordination. To do a mountain climber, follow these steps:.
- Begin in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Bring your right knee towards your chest, keeping your foot off the ground.
- Return your right foot to the starting position and repeat with your left leg.
- Continue alternating legs as quickly as you can.
Do as many mountain climbers as you can in one minute, rest for 30 seconds, and repeat for a total of three sets.
5. Plank
The plank is a simple exercise that is great for strengthening your core. It also works your arms, shoulders, and glutes. To do a plank, follow these steps:.
- Begin in a push-up position with your arms straight and your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Lower your forearms to the ground and hold yourself up in a straight line from head to heels.
- Hold for as long as you can.
Try to hold a plank for one minute, rest for 30 seconds, and repeat for a total of three sets.
Final Thoughts
Even if you only have a few minutes, there are plenty of exercises that you can do to get a complete gym session. These five exercises work your entire body and can be done anywhere with no equipment.
Incorporate them into your routine for a quick and effective workout.