Let’s face it: The thought of hitting the gym can be a daunting one. Between figuring out how to use the machines and dealing with sweaty clothes, it feels like more trouble than it’s worth sometimes.

But what if you could get the blood flowing at home without breaking too big of a sweat? Fortunately, that’s exactly what we’re here to share. These easy exercises offer a chance to get you moving from the comfort of your living room. The best part? All three exercises can be completed in 10-minute circuits as a simple, at-home workout routine.

Keep reading to learn more about our favorite low-impact exercises!

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Modified Push-Ups

Believe it or not, the dreaded push-up can be modified in a way that makes it a fairly easy exercise. Better yet, our version won’t sacrifice any of the muscle-building or toning benefits that traditional push-ups provide. 

You have a couple options for modified push-ups. For beginners, stand about a foot away from a wall and place your hands on it. Then, bend your arms in a push-up-like motion so your nose almost touches the wall. Push yourself back with your arms, and voila—you’ve just done a push-up!

A more advanced version is to kneel on the floor and assume a standard push-up position with your arms. Bend your arms slowly until your nose gets as close to the floor as you can and then push yourself back up.

We love the way these work our core and arm muscles. For a 10-minute circuit, try completing two sets of 10—three if you’re up for a challenge!

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Side Leg Lifts

To work your lower body, give side leg lifts a try. Not only do side leg lifts strengthen your leg muscles, but they also help your knees and any joint pain, such as patellofemoral syndrome.

Lie down on your side, steadying yourself with the hand on your elevated side. Lift the top leg as high as it can go, all the while inhaling slowly, and then bring it back down, exhaling slowly in turn. Do 10 reps and then switch sides. For a 10-minute circuit, aim for two sets on each side.

If you’re up for a challenge, try putting your other hand behind your head while you lift. This activates your core a little more.

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Squats

Squats are one of the most versatile exercises you can do, mainly because they offer benefits no matter how low you go. This makes them beginner-friendly and excellent for developing strength in your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and even knees.

The key, though, is ensuring your form is correct. Squatting with incorrect form can do more harm than good, so make sure you’re in the right position before you start. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, chest up, toes slightly pointed out, and knees slightly bent. Then, bend your knees slowly to squat.

Want to go even lower? Get a chair! Position it so that when you squat down, you sit in the chair. We love this modification, as it’s perfect for beginners who want to deepen their squats right off the bat.

Shoot for two to three 10-rep rounds to complete a 10-minute circuit. Remember: Slow and steady is key with squats.

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Get Movin’ and Groovin’

Exercise doesn’t always have to be sweaty and intense—sometimes it’s as simple as a slow, gentle, and repetitive movement. Now that we’ve shed some light on a few new exercises to do at home, we hope you’re inspired to get moving in no time. Thanks for reading and keep checking back for more of our favorite wellness tips and tricks!

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