16 Things You’ll Need to Exercise During Pandemic Winter
The GrommetWith the majority of us continuing to work from home, we’re also still working out from home. In our bedrooms, tiny living rooms, and maybe even a hallway or two (hi, walking lunges). It’s not easy — there’s not much space and #tbt to actual equipment.
But where there’s a will, there’s a way. And we’re determined to make home winter workouts doable. And actually enjoyable. So we rounded up things that don’t hog floor space, but will help you reach your fitness goals. It’s time to sweat.
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A grip that can attach onto dumbbells to transform them into kettlebells…
Say that five times fast. You may not have enough space for both pieces of equipment. No biggie. This grip locks onto dumbbells so that you can grip them in the same way you’d grip a kettlebell. Psst...it works best on dumbbells under 55 pounds. ($34.95, Amazon)
A personal yoga assistant that gives you feedback on your alignment in real time…
So when you’re working out in your bedroom, you can make sure that you’re activating the right muscles. It works via wearable motion sensors that sync with an app on your phone. So you can get personalized feedback. You may not be returning to group classes anytime soon, but you can still get the most out of your session. ($299, Yoganotch)
A slim fanny pack for outdoor runs…
It’ll keep your essentials safe (like keys and phone) while you explore the neighborhood. And TBH, you don’t realize how annoying it is to hold your phone throughout your run until both hands are free. ($11.99, Amazon)
A set of fabric resistance bands that won’t slide or twist…
Unlike rubber bands, these will stay in place. So while you’re attempting a crab walk across your apartment, the band won’t bunch or ride up your thighs. Phew. ($19.99/set of 3, Leband Store on Etsy)
A set of adjustable dumbbells that’ll help you save on space…
These can go from 5 1/2 pounds to 27 1/2 pounds with the push of a button. So you won’t need to collect an entire set that requires a stand. Aka, they’re ideal for those living in small spaces who still wanna lift. ($144.99+, Amazon)
A portable resistance training system to take anywhere…
Yellow provides 3 pounds of resistance, blue is 5 pounds, and red is 8 pounds. So you can work up a sweat while doing squats, lunges, or focusing on your upper body. There’s also a bunch of training videos you can follow if you’re at first unsure how to take advantage of the system. ($69.95+, The Grommet)
An under-the-desk elliptical so you can move while you work…
Just because you’re typing away at a computer doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your daily movement. This one will keep your legs going as you take calls or jump into a Zoom meeting. Just don’t forget to mute if you’re out of breath. ($249, The Grommet)
An adjustable kettlebell that’s incredibly versatile…
It can be used for ab routines, or upper + lower body exercises. To up weight, add an iron plate to the bell. It’ll max out at 40 pounds and it has a locking feature so none of the plates move around while you’re in motion. ($119.99, Titan Fitness)
A magnetic system to allow for hands-free workouts…
The phone mount goes directly onto your cell's case. The larger magnetic plate can be slipped into the side of leggings (or really any clothing). Now you don’t have to place your phone down if you don’t have pockets. The magnetic bond is even strong enough to hold larger devices (like iPads). And with two free hands, you can do a full set of reps without worrying about your device. ($38, EZ Reach Apparel)
A pair of sliders to intensify your normal exercises…
Turn the dial up a notch. We’re talking mountain climbers, pushups, and lunges. With the sliders, you’ll be challenged to keep yourself stable and engage your core. And yes, they’ll move easily across carpets, tile, and wood floors. ($9.99, Target)
A set of adjustable ankle weights for your virtual pilates class…
Each weight goes up to 5 pounds. So to lighten, you just have to remove the tiny sand pockets from their pouches. Each weight has velcro straps to secure around your ankles before you start working out. ($29.99, Amazon)
A collapsible foam roller to help with after-workout recovery…
Don’t be fooled: foam rolling can be painful for newcomers. Especially if your muscles are tight. But regularly doing it after you work out can greatly help with muscle recovery, increase circulation, and increase flexibility. This one is unique in that it can collapse down when not in use. Easy peasy storage. ($68, The Grommet)
A workout app to help you stay focused on your fitness goals…
Because sometimes coming up with your own routines is a bit overwhelming. And sometimes you need something pushing you to stay dedicated. We get it. This app allows you to choose the length of your workout and the type - from yoga to cardio to strength training. You can customize and save workouts, too. Just in case you wanna return later. (Free to download from the App Store)
A TRX Fit system to round out your home gym…
It can be used by those of all fitness levels and can provide a total body workout in as little as 15 minutes. The idea is based on body weight. So you won’t need extra dumbbells or heavy equipment. And it can be set up indoors or outdoors, depending on what space you’ve transformed into a gym. ($99.99, Dick’s Sporting Goods)
A yoga mat with alignment markers to help you through a session…
A little guidance can go a long way. And this mat can sub in as a teacher for those who need it. Working out from home doesn’t mean you have to wing it. ($34.30, Society6)
A pair of cold weather leggings for your ventures outside…
The temps are dropping (in most places). And that means your morning walk will be a bit chilly. These leggings are dual-layer with a brushed inside and quick-drying outside. They’ve also got a pocket in the back and have a high-rise waist for full support. You = covered. ($50, Under Armour)
PS: These are editorially selected, but if you purchase, theSkimm may get something in return.
PPS: If something’s out of stock, oops, it was there when we published. And we apologize for any shipping delays due to COVID-19. Thanks.
Skimm'd by Alexandra Napoli, Jessica Kelly
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