Easy Indoor Exercise Ideas

The holiday season brings festivities. And with the festivities comes food. A lot of it. The irony is that this season comes at a time when outdoor activities are just a memory, causing us to be more sedentary resulting in weight gain. Take heart however, the following indoor activities are your defense against the blahs of winter. They are low cost or free, easy and fun when done with the right attitude. Yes, fun. The trick is creating a fun atmosphere whether it is adding your favorite music, inviting some friends over or if you're like me, do them by yourself to reduce stress. The results are quite motivating. This is just in time for that little black dress or tux. Please be sure to consult with a physician before beginning any new physical activities.

1)Air squats are great for toning all areas of the legs, the buttocks and hips. They're one of those exercises that seem easy until you actually do them. Try starting with 5-10, 3 times a day. Do this for a week. Gradually build up repetitions each week until 50 can be done at one time. If more of a challenge is needed, add light weights and keep arms to the sides. See how they're done at http://crossfitqueenanne.typepad.com/crossfit_queen_anne/2009/01/the-squat.html

2)Nothing creates sexy shoulders better than push ups. Whether done on a chair or with the knees bent, push ups are great for getting rid of that unsightly underarm bra fat. Be sure to keep the back straight and focus, focus, focus on the form. Ladies if you can implement "man" push ups into your routine, the results will be even better. Start with however many you can comfortably do then gradually build up every week. You'll be sure to turn heads in that little strapless dress! Http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/sampleworkouts/a/Push_Ups.htm

3)Speaking of sexy shoulders, all yoga plank poses are great for the arms, chest and shoulders. If you do all the plank poses you're sure to get a thorough workout in just minutes. With results usually visible in around 4 weeks, plank poses are well worth the effort. Http://yogajournal.com/poses/470

4)If you are a tv junkie, why not use a Pilates ball while watching your favorite show? Your abs and core get toned and you never have to miss an episode. Since the spine carries the majority of our total weight, core strength is vital to proper organ function, breathing and posture. A healthy core alleviates a myriad of health problems. It's more than just tighter abs, it's better overall health. http://hubpages.com/hub/fa-10-ball-abs-exercises

5)In yoga, there is a sequence of poses called Sun Salutations. It's an excellent way to wake up in the morning. Sun Salutations consist of 5 simple poses done in a cycle. For beginners, I suggest practicing the sequence at a pace that allows the proper form and breathing first. Once you have that down, quicken the pace, being sure to achieve each pose completely and correctly. Not only does the sequence cause a healthy sweat, but it offers an aerobic workout without impact. The best part about Sun Salutations, is that you can increase sets as you feel comfortable, building endurance yet when done slowly and in a relaxing atmosphere, has a calming effect. http://www.yogatic.com/yoga-video/ashtanga-yoga-sun-salutation-a/

6)There's no denying that tight butts are super sexy and if you have a chair around, you can have a firm bum. Reverse leg lifts do for the bottom what sit ups do for the abs. A few minutes a day will lift and tone. Add ankle weights for quicker results. http://www.fitsugar.com/1853022

7)Video games have received negative reviews, stating they promote sedentary lifestyles and obesity. But with games like Dance Dance Revolution and Wii, keeping fit is easier than ever. Since the games require movement to play, you'll be burning calories without even realizing it.

So staying active is not only easy but can be very fun as well. And whether you're getting a head start on the New Year, or wanting to maintain your summer body, these exercises are sure to help you reach your goals.