How to Get in Shape at Home

Many people assume that in order to get in shape they need to join an expensive gym, but this is simply not true. In fact, you can get in shape in the comfort of your own home. Naturally, this will require more discipline on your part but it is definitely worth the effort and free!

1. Begin with cardiovascular
   exercise. This involves getting the heart rate up to a specific
   beats per minutes with an optimal goal of 140. You can achieve a
   good cardiovascular workout with brisk walking, jogging, running up
   and down the stairs, and using a jump rope. All of these are
   excellent ways to get that heart rate up and be on your way to a
   healthier you.


2. Build muscles via a strength
   training routine. If you have weights, you can use these, but if
   not, you can make substitutions. For instance, you can use two milk
   gallon size jugs and fill them with sand. Tie them to the ends of a
   broom (that no longer has the actual broom on it) and you have a
   homemade weight machine. You can add more milk jugs as you get
   stronger, if you wish.


3. Build up to about 20 minutes of
   cardiovascular workout three to four times each week. With the
   weight training or muscle building routine, depending on your goals,
   you can do this 15 minutes a few times each week. If your goal is to
   get in shape without building muscle, the majority of the workout
   needs to be with the cardiovascular component.