Spring Exercise Routine

Spring is here, and it’s time to get moving! No more hibernating under thick blankets and bundling up in layers and layers of clothes. We have more extended daylight hours and warmer weather ahead so let’s get ready to spring into fitness.

At this time of year when the weather is nicer, we have more options to be active. Whether you choose running, walking, swimming, or cycling, you’ll benefit greatly from incorporating more exercise into your daily routine. No, it doesn’t have to be a grueling session at the gym. A vigorous walk or a hike on a gorgeous trail is just as good. And variety is good, so mix it up when you can.

Today I’m going to share with you my go-to spring exercise routine I turn to when I’m short on time and want to squeeze in some activity in my day. You won’t need any equipment, and you can do it virtually anywhere.

The Movements

First, we want to make sure we’re doing these exercises correctly to avoid injuring ourselves and to get the most out of each movement.

1. Jumping Jacks

The jumping jack is a great cardio exercise that targets your whole body. It’s perfect for warming up to get the blood flowing and also ideal for keeping your heart rate up during a workout session.

How to do Jumping Jacks:

Start by standing tall with your feet directly under your hips (aka hip-width distance) and arms at your sides. Simultaneously raise your arms overhead (if you can, clap your hands together) while jumping both legs out to the side (feet should land softly and just wider than your hips), then quickly return to the starting position and repeat.

2. Squats

The squat is a compound movement that’s great for working out every part of your leg muscles, and it can get your heart rate up there, too. When squats begin to get easy for you, challenge yourself by doing them with a set of hand weights.

How to Squat:

Start by standing tall with your feet slightly wider than hip-width distance apart. Holding your hands straight out in front of you and looking straight ahead, tighten your stomach muscles (keep your shoulders and chest wide) and lower your body as if sitting (push your butt back as you bend your knees). Your body weight should be evenly distributed throughout your entire foot. Keeping your body tight, return to the starting position and repeat.

3. Push-ups

The push-up is a goodie for strengthening your upper body and core. If you struggle to get them at first, start on your knees and keep working at it. As you build your upper body and core muscles, push-ups should get more comfortable for you.

How to do a Push-Up:

Start facing the floor with your hands directly underneath your shoulders, legs extended behind you and the balls of your feet on the ground. Tighten your stomach muscles and butt as you bend at the elbows and lower your body until your chest touches the ground. Keeping your body tight and in a straight line, extend the arms as you raise your body to the starting position. Repeat.

4. Crunches

Crunches are an easy and effective way to target your abdominal muscles, which are part of your core muscle group.

How to do Crunches:

Start lying face-up on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Place your hands beside your ears, keeping your elbows out wide to the side and your chin at least a fist’s distance from your chest. Tighten your stomach muscles and lift your shoulders off the ground while keeping your lower back touching the floor. Return to the starting position and repeat.

5. High Knees

Last but not least, we have high knees. It’s a simple yet effective cardio exercise that raises your heart rate and tones your legs.

How to do High Knees:

Start by standing tall with your feet at a hip-width distance apart and arms at your sides. Drive your left knee to your chest, raising your knee to waist height, then quickly return your foot to the ground. Immediately do the same with your right knee and repeat on both sides.