Exercising in Cramped Quarters

Mary Singleton
Published Aug 1, 2024



In case you didn't know, the United States is about to be thrust into another series of lock-downs, which are going to inevitably cause most businesses to close, schools to shutter, and most people are going to be confined in their homes more often than not. Even for people who want to get out of the house, the fact is that they might not really have anywhere they can go. Recreational businesses are likely to be shut down. All dine-in restaurants are going to once again be closed. Public parks will be completely shuttered and likely is the case police will be around to enforce those closures. So, even for people who want to get out to get exercise, there's really not very many places they're able to go. This is a shame, of course, seeing as one's wellness is directly tied up not only in their ability to move around and exercise, but also socialize and be around other people. Though just because you can't get to a gym doesn't mean you still cannot exercise.

There are all sorts of things that you can do to stay active inside, even if you live in a relatively cramped space like a city apartment. People who go to jail in incredibly small cells often turn their boredom into exercise and come out in far better shape than they went in. Of course, you're not accused of any crime here, though the government is still intent on treating people like prisoners. They expect you to stay inside, but that in no way means you cannot exercise and focus on your overall wellness. Let's have a look at a few ways by which you can turn any cramped space into a suitable at-home gym.

Do Physical Exercises

One of the best ways that you can get a lot of exercise inside is to just do those old-school exercises that you used to do in gym class. They're good enough for physical training for the armed forces, so they're certainly good enough for your wellness at home during lock-downs. Sit-ups, push-ups, and exercises like jumping jacks can keep you in great shape and in high spirits without needing a lot of space. You can do these sorts of exercises in your living room or in your bedroom.

Generally speaking, all you need to do these exercises is the will to do them. During times like these, that will may be hard to muster up at first. Though the endorphins released by exercise are usually quite pleasant, and you may find yourself wanting to feel that "high" from working out time and again, which is likely going to encourage you to work out more. This is a great way to stay in peak shape while the world is closed down around you. It's going to help you feel better, sleep better, and look a lot better.

Buy Some Small Equipment

There is a lot of equipment you can buy that's not going to take up much space at all. Dumbbells, for instance, are very small and can easily fit under the bed or under a sofa. You can leave the weights on them, if detachable, or just buy fixed dumbbells that are 30 or 40 pounds. Either way, there are dozens upon dozens of exercises you can do with dumbbells in a really small space. Another way to use exercise to improve your wellness in a relatively small place is to buy a pull-up bar. These things are very sturdy, and they don't necessarily take up any room because you hang them on your doorways. SO, they're not in the floor nor do they need to be put away when not in use. You can just hang them and they're out of the way.

Clean A Lot

Even if you don't have money to spend on equipment, you can still move around a lot by physically cleaning. Not just vacuuming the carpet or washing the dishes, but by getting out a rag and soap and really scrubbing down your appliances, your walls, etc. This sort of motion is going to help you get in better physical shape, and the low-impact cardio is going to do wonders for your overall physical wellness. It will also help to improve your mental wellness, as your mind is on things other than the virus raging outside of your doors.

If you're willing to put in a little bit of effort, there's a lot you can do to improve your wellness in a cramped space while stuck indoors.

Recent Articles

December 2024 SNAP Payment Schedule: What You Need to Know...

In December 2024, there's big news for people who get help buying food from the SNAP program in the United States. SNAP, which stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, gives monthly money to low-...

Understanding TEFAP: A Quick Guide...

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a helpful program run by the U.S. government that gives free emergency food to people who don't have a lot of money.  It's managed by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS),...

The 2024 Election: What's at Stake for Food Assistance Programs...

As Americans gear up for the 2024 Presidential Election, the spotlight is on Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, two candidates with starkly different plans for the nation's food assistance programs.  ...

A Quick Guide: When to Expect SNAP Benefits in November 2024...

As we approach November, it's time for those enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as food stamps, to get ready for their next set of benefits.  SNAP be...

What Stores Let You Use Food Stamps for Online Grocery Orders?...

If you use food stamps, also known as the SNAP program, and find it hard to go to the grocery store, you might be able to shop online instead.  Many big stores now let you use your SNAP EBT card to or...

Can People on Disability Get Food Assistance Through SNAP?...

Disabilities can impact anyone, affecting both health and finances significantly. Many American adults living with disabilities are more prone to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.  ...