Spring is here! The promise of warmer days and cleaner homes. Now’s the time when we break out the vacuum cleaner and eliminate those dust bunnies. It takes work to deep clean our living space, so why not kill two birds with one stone by turning it into a workout?
Here are a few ideas on how you can squeeze in some exercise while your home is getting some much-needed TLC (don’t forget to stretch first!):
Make your cleaning vigorous
Put on some fast music, get an old toothbrush and scrub away the dirt from the bathroom tiles. The intense music will help you get a vigorous workout as you move your arm to eliminate dirt. Burn those calories with that filthy toothbrush!
Do calf raises while ironing
Personally, ironing clothes is my least favorite chore. I just don’t have the patience to defeat those wrinkles you know? But adding in some exercise does help pass the time, and before you know it, you’ve already ironed a bajillion clothes. Click here to see how to do calf raises properly.
Get some cardio done by mowing the lawn
Did you know mowing the lawn is good for your heart? Pushing the lawn mower around is already cardio exercise. Of course, those expensive riding lawn mowers don’t count. Opt for a push power lawn mower or, for a more vigorous workout, a hand mower.
If you’re going to do other yard work in your spring cleaning like gardening, check out our tips to help prevent back pain.
Wipe in a circular motion
Whether you’re wiping a window, a countertop or an appliance, remember a much-beloved 80’s movie. If you saw Karate Kid, one of the most memorable scenes is Mr. Miyagi’s “Wax on, wax off”. Sure, he was teaching Daniel that cleaning/waxing move to learn how to block, but it will still make for a good workout. Wiping in a circular motion will help strengthen your arms and shoulders. Just remember to use both hands equally.
Do lunges while vacuuming
Get a core workout when you do walking lunges as you vacuum your floor. Remember to keep your back straight. Contact one of our trainers to know proper techniques in doing lunges.
When you are done with these not only will you feel good after a workout, you’ll be relaxing in a very clean home!