Happy Sunday, guys!
Since today is Sunday, it’s the end of my 3-day break from working out. Once the weather is consistently nice (consistent weather in Michigan is rare, but fingers crossed) I’ll probably go for a walk one day over the weekend, but for now I exercise on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. It’s a routine I started a few months ago, and I find it’s what works best for me. I enroll in programs on the CCFIT workout app, which helps me stick to the routine even more – the exercises are already planned which takes all the planning out and allows me to just jump into the workout.
Before COVID, I had begun to go to the gym and was feeling my way around and learning the equipment. I remember going one day with my friend and asking her what workout app she uses, and she recommended CCFIT. I went home and downloaded it and perused the different workout programs (at the time, they were almost all intended for the gym). I didn’t have any gym equipment at home, so once quarantine started I resorted to workout videos on YouTube. The one positive that has come from COVID and gyms being closed is the amount of home workout videos that surfaced. They were great options when going to the gym wasn’t an option, but they’re also good for people who are hesitant or uncomfortable to begin work out at a gym.
I started off doing a TON of Chloe Ting workouts on YouTube, and followed many of her workout programs (thanks TikTok). After those, I downloaded an app called Kerosine and paid a one-time fee of $20 for a workout program called “Home Sweat Home.” This program was great. It had every exercise already planned out and included a video of the proper way to do each one. It also showed the muscles engaged on a diagram. This program taught me how to do a lot of exercises that I had never done before. At the time all I had were 4 pound dumbbells, so I used those. This program had you working out 5 days a week.
After I used that app for a few months, I slowly transitioned to the CCFIT app once I saw that she had uploaded more at-home workouts. I purchased resistance bands and long bands from her website, and bought heavier dumbbells. I also followed workouts she put on Instagram. Her app is organized really well – you can choose from clearly-labeled workout programs that specifically target your needs. However, not every program is available unless you pay for the premium subscription. It’s $7 and well worth the money in my opinion. Her programs also include a video and instructions on how to perform each exercise. There are both at-home programs and those designed for the gym. Aside from when I had COVID, I have consistently used her app for the past 7 months. I really enjoy it.
I recently started using a pre-workout, and I’ll link it below. It is a caffeine-free option for those like me who can’t give up their coffee or who workout at night. I find it gives me the right amount of energy to power through a workout without making me feel jittery or shaky.
Even though gyms are open again in Michigan, I’ve decided to continue to exercise at home. It took a while, but I’m seeing progress and noticing I’m getting stronger. Some may prefer the gym, but at-home workouts work best for me currently. In addition to going on walks once the weather allows, I’ll also ride my bike. It’s an effective way to get your heart rate up while also engaging certain muscles.
When I first started working out, my goal was to change my body. My goal has shifted over the past year. I now move my body because it feels good to, and I feel energized after a workout. I’m feeling stronger and more toned every day. I thank my body every day that I’m able to exercise. Whether it’s a short walk, a HIIT workout, or a leg day that takes an hour, you are moving your body and for that you should be proud.
Pre-Workout Options:
PEScience High Volume Pre-Workout (caffeine free): https://pescience.com/collections/pre-workouts/products/high-volume?variant=185073631258
PEScience Prolific Pre-Workout (contains caffeine): https://pescience.com/collections/pre-workouts/products/prolific?variant=185125175322
*I do not get commission for purchases made through links in this post. I am also not affiliated with any of the above mentioned apps or products*
Thoughts From A Lefty 