You do not have to spend a lot of time at the gym in order to get fit. Getting fit does not have to take place at the gym, and the following tips show you ways you can improve your fitness, regardless of where you want to burn those extra calories.

Many people attempt to get fit just by lifting weight on a bench. You really don’t need all that equipment to stay in shape, however. Just doing pushups, handstand pushups, leg raises, squats, bridges and pullups is enough to keep you fit.

Seek out a fitness program that you enjoy, and then stay with it. If you look forward to your workout, you’ll stay with it for the long haul.

If you need a little confidence boost in your fitness routine, buy new workout clothes. Even a tiny item may help motivate you to go to the gym, so you can show off your new purchase.

Exercise classes are an excellent way to get into shape. You can find an exercise class that you enjoy, and as a result, you are more likely to continue attending. Check into local classes to find one that interests you.

If you want to work your triceps, pushups are the way to go. Instead of doing normal push-ups, turn your hands at a 45 degree angle. This exercise is extremely effective.

You can exercise while watching television so that you can increase the momentum of your weight loss. You can use commercials as a time to have quick, short workouts. Another option is to use weight bands while remaining seated. You can always have time to squeeze in some exercise.

Maintain a fitness log detailing your fitness activities for the day. Keep track of all the workouts you do. Do not forget any additional exercise that you perform. Invest in a pedometer so you can track your steps throughout the day and add that information in as well. When you write down what you do daily, it helps you see see how well you are progressing so that you know if you need to step it up or not, and it helps to keep you motivated.

Dedicate a little bit of time each day to exercise. Little things like opting for the stairs over the elevator will really add up to calories burned and muscles worked.

When doing moves that involve lifting weights over your head, contract your glute muscles on each repetition. Your bottom receives an enhanced workout and your chance of injury is greatly reduced because you are better positioned. You’ll be able to keep your spine straighter and more stable when you do this.

An important part of any fitness program is to start out with well-fitting shoes. Shop for footwear after a workout when your feet are the most swollen. There should be a half an inch of room between your big toe and your shoe. Make sure that you are able to move your toes.

Do not neglect weekends to workout. It is not true that you should forget about working out on the weekends. You need to keep your mind on your fitness goals 24/7. Careless weekends can lead to starting from scratch when Monday comes around.

Do television exercise routines for something different. Find exercise shows that can help your workout from the comfort of home. Your exercise sessions will prove faster time to pass and more mentally engaging when you don’t know what the next episode brings. Most TVs can be hooked up to computers via HDMI, so if you lack a fitness channel on your cable package, you can always run an online video.

Before starting to work on your physical fitness, make sure to schedule a physical with a physician before doing anything strenuous. You doctor’s opinion is crucial as to whether or not you should complete these exercises regularly. Even if you’ve already begun a fitness routine, your physician can give you more assistance.

Don’t bounce around when you’re stretching. This puts a lot of strain on the muscles. Bouncing during stretches does not actually improve flexibility. Bouncing actually makes it more likely that you’ll injure yourself through over-stretching. Stretches, when done properly, should be smooth and stable, not jarring or bouncy.

Incorporate fitness into your cleaning schedule. Cleaning spills and vacuuming are excellent activities and allow you to work in a few deep knee bends while you are at it. Push-ups is a good choice too. If you engage in short bursts of exercise whenever you can, you will get back in shape before you know it.

Have a friend go running with you. It’s especially motivating if your friend is in better shape than you. If your friend is more fit than you are, you will try even harder to keep up with them. You will see what a person who is faster and fitter than you looks like, rather than being a vague notion in your mind. You will be inspired to push yourself harder, with the eventual goal of beating that person someday.

Getting into shape and becoming healthy can seem like a challenge, but it can be quite enjoyable as well. Use these tips to round out your fitness plan. Look at physical fitness as a goal that can be achieved only through daily effort. With consistency and dedication, you will be well on your way toward reaching your fitness goals.