January is a great time for fitness routines and resolutions. February? Not so much. 

 

After a few weeks of holiday cheer – aka cookies, cakes, and champagne – it’s pretty normal to want to start some new fitness routines to help you cleanse your mind, body, and soul. While it’s not really hard to choose a few workout tutorials to try out, it can be hard to actually stick with them. Trust me, you’re not alone.

 

Not anymore, folks!

 

I scoured the internet for some workout inspiration and found a ton of inspired and addicting routines for the new year. Remember to pace yourself, drink lots of water, and set your bar high. With a positive attitude and the right regimen, you’ll be sure to have no problem staying on track. Check out this collection of New Year fitness routines that you’ll actually stick to. 

2021 Fitness Routines You Won’t Want to Quit

Keep It Simple.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to invest in workout equipment that you can easily use anywhere. I’m talking 5-8 pound weights, resistance bands, and a gym bag packed and ready to go at all times. Create a simple workout routine that builds your strength and doesn’t require a full gym and a trainer to spot you. This way, you’ll be able to work out from wherever you are and whenever you want to. Big February snow storm? No problem. Stick to your squat reps and you’ll be just fine. Try this quick and effective leg day routine and you’ll be working out wherever you can find a free square foot. 

Walking lunges: 10 reps for each leg

• With a 6-8 pound weight in each hand, take a deep step forward with your right leg while stretching your lower half into a lunge
• Step back into your starting position
• Repeat, alternating with each leg 10 times each

Wall Squat:

• Stand with your back flat against an open wall
• Sink your body down as if you’re sitting in a chair and plant your feet into the ground
• Hold squat for as long as you can or for at least 20 seconds

Calf Raises: 

• With a 6-8 pound weight in each hand, find your standing posture with your feet shoulder width apart
• Keeping your arms at your side, lift up on your toes and pulse up and down in this position
• Do this 30 times with both feet and 15 times individually

Repeat the circuit 3-5 times with rests between.

 

HIIT it

If you’re dreading the possibility of sweating it out on a treadmill or staring into the void of a screen full of undulating scenery for an hour, then HIIT training is for you. HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training. These workouts pack a punch and last only about 20 minutes – all while getting you the cardio you need. Try this activity-filled routine at home, at the gym, or wherever the mood so strikes. 

HIIT Cardio:

• 20 jumping jacks
• 10 pushups
• 10 squats
• Rest for 30 seconds in between sets
• Repeat 3-5 times

 

Rest is Best

This next fitness routine from Refinery29 is made for beginners looking to really ease into things during their first week. I think this is perfect for the new year, so you can slowly get into the routine that works best for you instead of quitting when things get too busy or tough. This routine is completely flexible and even includes – wait for it – a rest day. Praise be. 

Week 1 Fitness Challenge:

• Day 1: Take a long walk
• Day 2: Try a barre class (or something else you’re interested in!)
• Day 3: REST – told ya
• Day 4: Stretch
• Day 5: Free Day – do whatever it is that you love doing – boxing, walking, jogging, squatting – you name it!
• Day 6: REST – wow
• Day 7: Yes, it’s another rest day. Be kind to yourself as you start this new year.

 

If you’re wondering how you’ll know which routine will best fit your needs, I suggest looking inward- or at least at this article from Byrdie that gives some great insight on finding the right path. Long story short, do something you love, try a one on one session with a trainer, or try it all until something speaks to you. 

What are some of your favorite fitness routines?  Let me know in a comment below!