February 12, 2014
5 ways to turn houseWORK into a WORKout
I've never enjoyed cleaning but sadly it's something that has to be done. So I decided to spice it up a bit by making houseWORK into a WORKout.
That way I figured I would resent cleaning a lot less because I'm getting something out of it.
For those of you who are looking at The Daily Hiit workouts and thinking that you can't find the time to exercise, here's a way to fit it into your daily routine. No excuses.
1. Vacuuming lunges/lifts
As you push the vacuum forward and back fit in some lunges with it, alternating legs and stretch them out as far as you can go. For the times when you need to use the extension part of the vacuum, hold the vacuum with one hand and perform over-head tricep dips (alternating after a few sets each).
2. Laundry sorting squats / doorframe dusting squats
When you are sorting the laundry basket out hold a squat as you do it. Also, each time you work the duster down the side of the doorframes squat with it. It's better for your back than bending over....and better for your butt!
3. Worktop press ups/knee ups
While you are waiting for the kettle to boil for your green tea (or other hot beverage) do standing press ups leaning on the edge of your worktop counter. Obviously make sure that the counter is dry so you don't slip! If you have time left then also try some knee ups by using the corner of the worktop.
4. Dirty dishes calf raises
As you wash the dishes stand with your feet hip width apart and rise up onto your toes and hold for 5-10 seconds, then repeat. Hold your butt in as you rise for an extra little butt workout.
5. Floor scrubbing ab sliders
As you wash the floor on your knees hold the brush/cloth with both hands and push your arms out in front of you, cleaning the floor while contracting your abs each time you lean forward. As you move straight forward and lean side to side you are engaging your whole core.
Even just holding the poses for these photos made some of my muscles ache! So I will definitely be adding these little extras to perk up my cleaning routine, and give a new meaning to the phrase houseWORK.
As you push the vacuum forward and back fit in some lunges with it, alternating legs and stretch them out as far as you can go. For the times when you need to use the extension part of the vacuum, hold the vacuum with one hand and perform over-head tricep dips (alternating after a few sets each).
2. Laundry sorting squats / doorframe dusting squats
When you are sorting the laundry basket out hold a squat as you do it. Also, each time you work the duster down the side of the doorframes squat with it. It's better for your back than bending over....and better for your butt!
3. Worktop press ups/knee ups
While you are waiting for the kettle to boil for your green tea (or other hot beverage) do standing press ups leaning on the edge of your worktop counter. Obviously make sure that the counter is dry so you don't slip! If you have time left then also try some knee ups by using the corner of the worktop.
4. Dirty dishes calf raises
As you wash the dishes stand with your feet hip width apart and rise up onto your toes and hold for 5-10 seconds, then repeat. Hold your butt in as you rise for an extra little butt workout.
5. Floor scrubbing ab sliders
As you wash the floor on your knees hold the brush/cloth with both hands and push your arms out in front of you, cleaning the floor while contracting your abs each time you lean forward. As you move straight forward and lean side to side you are engaging your whole core.
Even just holding the poses for these photos made some of my muscles ache! So I will definitely be adding these little extras to perk up my cleaning routine, and give a new meaning to the phrase houseWORK.