Unusual Ways to Work Out for the Busy or Housebound

Quick disclaimer: Always check with a doctor for any fitness routine. This article is no substitute for medical advice, but it is based on research and personal experience.

When I can't work out, I feel bad and find it harder to stay motivated to stick to my fitness and diet routine. The last time that happened, I threw some of my energy into some heavier home maintenance chores that needed to get done. By the end of the day, I felt like I'd run 20 laps and was just as tired as if I'd gone to the gym! I did this for a week and discovered that my muscle mass had actually improved and I'd lost a 1/2 inch off my waist.

Intrigued, I started doing some research online and discovered that even "normal housework" can burn an amazing amount of calories and even build muscle, but only if you follow some simple guidelines.

Basically, you want to achieve the same goals you would for any workout. For me, that includes a balance of aerobic activity as well as weight training and stretching exercises. With kids home for Winter break right now, my time is limited but I'm discovered some surprising benefits of working out at home (more detail about that below). For now, here's the info you need to choose activities and chores that'll keep you on the fitness track when stuck at home, perhaps due to rainy, cold or dangerous weather.

But don't get discouraged! It is possible to workout at home and stay conditioned, even if you never touch a barball or weight.

First step: Get a decent pedometer

This will give you a general gauge of how many steps you are taking as you complete your housework or home chores. You may find yourself pleasantly surprised. Your goal? To aim for 10,000 steps a day, just as if you were walking, running or jogging on a treadmill or track. While this may seem an unreachable goal when trapped at home, you may be surprised how easily it is to hit that target level, even if you never set foot outside your house. If you have a busy day when you can make a run to the grocery store or just walk up and down your street a few times, you can add up even more steps. Every bit helps!