As the name suggests, bodyweight training is a type of exercise where you use your own bodyweight to create resistance against gravity, instead of using free weights or machines. Sounds simple right?
It is!
At Chef Good we love simplicity and making life a little bit easier. That’s why we’ll take care of the cooking so you can take care of the rest – including finding a form of movement that you enjoy. Maybe that’s bodyweight training? Read on to find out more about the benefits and some of our favourite exercises.
1. It doesn’t cost a thing!
Using your own bodyweight to train won’t set you back a cent. The only ‘equipment’ you require is you! Of course, you might want to invest in a fitness mat or maybe some workout clothes, but that’s totally optional. You can also take full advantage of everyday items around you to take your workout to the next level – chairs, steps and benches are all great.
2. Convenience is key
Using your body weight to workout doesn’t require a gym, dumbbells or barbells. You can get sweaty in your living room, hotel or outside in a park. As we’ve already mentioned, you can use the things around you to add to your workout (tricep dips on the park bench, anyone?). Because you don’t need to go anywhere or take anything, this makes bodyweight training extremely convenient, and you know how much we dig convenience at Chef Good!
3. Bodyweight training is efficient
Along with convenience, comes efficiency. Not needing to switch machines or set up barbells with weights means you can transition from one move to the next with little or no downtime. No wastage here! High-output, efficient bodyweight exercise will also get you fitness results fast.
4. Combine your exercises
A bodyweight training stint can see you work on both strength training and cardio – the perfect combo! Check out our previous posts to read more about the health and fitness benefits of these two forms of working out.
5. Don’t get bored
The combinations and different sequences of bodyweight exercises mean there is no chance you’re going to get bored. Sure, you might feel like you’re in a rut sometimes, doing the same things over and over – but we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favourite moves to mix up your next workout:
- Pull ups at the park – you know the monkey bars you used to love as a kid? Well, most parks will have a set and these are perfect for you to use for pull ups. If you’re working on building your strength, you can ask a friend to help you out by supporting some of your weight.
- Wall sits – make any standing around time work to your advantage by finding a wall and sliding down into a sitting position. This posture will fire up those legs and glutes!
- Lunges – a simple move that can be taken up a notch by simply adding in a jump between legs! If you’re not keen on high-impact exercises, slow it down and get low in your lunges to work your legs.
- Plank to push-up – start in a low plank (forearms on the ground) and walk one hand up at a time to find yourself in a high plank. From high plank, you can add a push-up or keep walking the hands up and down.
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