Workouts You Can Do Right In Your Backyard

Taking care of your home and family is a full-time job in itself, and sometimes it feels impossible to take an hour out to hit the gym. If this is true for you, and getting in shape one of your new year's resolutions, then keep reading for workouts you can do close to home!

1. Sprints

Cardio is a great way to start any workout. Sprint the entire length of the yard as fast as you can, then jog back. Repeat 5-10 times depending on the size of your patio.

2. Bear Crawls

Bear crawl the entire length of your yard and back. If you're not sure how to properly bear crawl, check out this YouTube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7xvosQ_0z4). Bear crawls are a fun and easy way to work your core!

3. Staircase Step-ups

Using the bottom step of a flight of stairs, turn your body perpendicular to the step. Place your entire right foot onto the step. Press through your right heel as you step onto the step, bringing your left foot to meet your left so you are standing on the step. Return to the starting position by stepping down with the right foot, then the left so both feet are on the floor. If your steps are too short, try it with a bench or a chair! This will really get your heart rate pumping and strengthen those calf muscles.

4. Swing Set Push-ups

Swing set pushups are a fun creative way to work out your arms and core. Start of by getting in a plank position, then carefully place both your feet on a swing. Next lift yourself up into a push up position. Keep your palms down on the floor, approximately one shoulder width apart, clench your glutes, and then tighten your abs. Your core will be engaged, and your body should be in a straight line. If you're a beginner you can remain in plank position to strengthen your core and if you're ready for a challenge go ahead and lower yourself down and push up! Three sets of ten is a good daily goal for this workout.

5. Jump Squats

Squats are great but jump squats are even better! Start by doing a regular squat, then engage your core and jump up. When you land, lower your body back into the squat position to complete one rep. control your body and land as quietly as possible.

6. Crunches

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground, hip-width apart. Place your hands behind your head and pull up! Curl up and forward so that your head, neck, and shoulder blades lift off the ground. If you're doing this on concrete, definitely invest in a yoga matt!

7. Lunges from one end of the pool to the other

Use your pool as a guide to lunge from one end to the other. Keeping your back straight, step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle. It's important to remember that your knees should not extend beyond your toes! Do this back and forth 5-10 times depending on the size of your pool.