What better way is there to start off 2021 than getting back into your fitness grind? Unfortunately, continuing COVID-19 restrictions and social distancing requirements can make it difficult to visit a gym or join a group class, making at-home workouts the best way to feel the burn this year.

If working out seems impossible in your small apartment or studio, don’t fear—with a few creative tricks and compact equipment, you can create your own home gym, no sweat (not yet, anyway).  From the best workout equipment for small apartments to post-workout snacks, here’s everything you need to work out at home.

Compact Workout Equipment

The best workout equipment for small apartments is compact, powerful, and easy to stash away. A basic setup for quiet workouts in an apartment would include a yoga mat or two (for exercise as well as cushioning to cut down on any noise), a few free weights or kettlebells, and a set of resistance bands or core gliders. These are all small enough to toss in a basket, a closet, dresser drawer or cabinet. If you want to focus on cardio, a mini stepper, portable elliptical or compact treadmill are more of an investment but can definitely be stored in a small space.

You can also be really creative and use everyday household items to get your workout in. A broom stretched across two chair backs makes an excellent pullup bar when lying on the floor. Gallon jugs or metal cans (full, of course) provide just as much resistance as dumbbells. Paper plates or towels can sub in for core gliders. And last but not least, a loaded backpack works just like a weighted vest to make your lunges and squats more challenging.

Workout Classes You Can Stream from Home

Whether it’s on a website or through an app, finding quiet workouts for apartments has never been easier. There are a variety of free and paid online workout options for nearly every type of exercise and fitness level. In many cases little to no equipment is required. YouTube is one of the best resources for free at-home workouts to get up and moving, including apartment-friendly options like this one. ClassPass is currently offering a library of 4,000 free on-demand workouts without a membership requirement.

For more accountability and community, subscription services like Obe ($27/month) or NEOU ($15/month) offer unlimited access to live and on-demand fitness classes from your phone, tablet, computer and TV. They can also help you establish goals, track progress, and set reminders to get moving.

Well-Ventilated Workout Space

Whether you’re doing a fast-paced HIIT workout or stretching out in downward facing dog, quality air flow is key when getting a full body workout in an apartment. Set up a box fan, portable circular fan or an air purifier/fan combo to help keep you cool when your workout gets hot. Options like Dyson Pure Cool and Levoit Cool 300 are stylish ways to cool down and purify the air.

Post-Workout Snacks

After a full body workout, you’ll want to maintain the fitness momentum by eating the right, healthy snacks. Aim for a mixture of protein, carbs, and fat.  Think apples with peanut butter, turkey and cheese rollups, a hardboiled egg and toast, or a homemade smoothie to help your body recover. Also consider stocking up on protein shakes, protein bars, or trail mix so you can still refuel even if you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. 

Let Southern Management Help You Meet Your Fitness Goals

An apartment workout is a simple and safe way to stick to your exercise routine without visiting the gym or fitness studio. By using the best workout equipment for small apartments and finding quiet workouts for apartments, you can turn your living room, dining room or bedroom into the perfect home gym fit just for you.

In addition, if you’re looking to focus on your fitness this year, Southern Management offers a number of fitness options right within our apartment communities. We have over 25,000 apartments across the Baltimore and D.C. area, many with amenities that will get your heart pumping, including state-of-the-art fitness centers, swimming pools, sports courts, putting greens, and – in the case of Oxon Hill Village –  an indoor basketball court!

Take a virtual tour of our communities, or contact us for more information!