Home Workouts for a Fresh Start
If you want to kickstart your fitness routine without the hassle of a gym, home workouts might be just what you need. Whether you’re juggling work, studies, or simply don’t feel confident exercising around others, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a guide to help you get started.
1. The Benefits of Home Workouts
Home workouts offer several advantages. They save time on travel, allow for a flexible schedule, and can be tailored to fit your individual needs and preferences. Plus, the comfort of your home can help you feel more relaxed and focused during your workouts.
2. Equipment
You don’t need a fully stocked gym to get a great workout. A few basic pieces of equipment can enhance your routine:
- Dumbbells or Kettlebells: Versatile for strength training and easy to store.
- Resistance Bands: Lightweight and perfect for adding resistance to your exercises.
- Yoga Mat: Provides comfort and stability for floor exercises and stretching.
3. Simple and Effective Exercises
Here are a few exercises that require minimal equipment and target multiple muscle groups:
- Squats: Great for building lower body strength. Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 reps. You can perform them as bodyweight exercises or increase the challenge by using a kettlebell or dumbbells.
- Push-Ups: A classic exercise for upper body strength. An easier alternative is by doing them on your knees if needed.
- Plank: An excellent core exercise. Hold for 20-30 seconds, gradually increasing as you get stronger.
- Lunges: Great for targeting your legs and glutes. Alternate legs and aim for 10-15 repetitions on each side. You can perform them as bodyweight exercises or increase the challenge by using a kettlebell or dumbbells.
- Burpees: A full-body workout that boosts your heart rate. Start with 5-10 reps and build up as you get fitter.
- Bicep curl: An excellent exercise for building arm strength and definition. Begin with 8-12 repetitions, focusing on proper form, and gradually increase the dumbbell weight or number of reps as you become stronger.
4. Creating a Routine
To establish a consistent workout routine, plan your workouts in advance. Aim for at least three sessions per week, mixing strength training with cardio and don't forget to include warm up and cool down stretches in your sessions to minimise injury.
5. Stay Motivated
Staying motivated can be challenging when working out at home. Here are some tips:
- Set Specific Goals: Whether it’s completing a certain number of workouts per week or improving your strength, having clear goals can keep you focused.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a workout journal or use fitness apps to log your exercises and track improvements.
- Create a Dedicated Space: Set aside a specific area in your home for workouts to help mentally prepare you for exercise.
Starting a home workout routine is an excellent way to refresh your fitness journey. With simple exercises and minimal equipment, you can achieve remarkable results without ever stepping foot in a gym. So grab your fit’s and enjoy the journey to a healthier you - all from the comfort of your own home!
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Beginners guide to starting a running routine this year
Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, gearing up for a 10k run, or simply aiming to get in shape - your running journey starts here!
Running is one of the most accessible ways to get fit, relieve stress, and boost mental health but it can also be intimidating if you’re just starting out. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you get moving safely and confidently this year.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Starting with a goal can make all the difference. Begin with something achievable, like running a specific distance or time, or simply going for three short runs a week. Avoid setting high expectations right away; this will help you stay motivated without the pressure.
2. Start Slowly
A common mistake beginners make is diving in too fast. Start with a mix of walking and running, such as the “run-walk” method. Try alternating a few minutes of running with a minute of walking, gradually increasing the running intervals each week.
3. Invest in Essential Gear
A quality pair of running shoes that matches your foot type and supports your stride can greatly reduce injury risk and enhance comfort. Moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry, especially if you're running in various weather conditions. Adding a reliable set of headphones for music and a running vest can boost motivation and keep essentials within reach on your runs.
4. Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up prepares your muscles for the workout and can improve your performance. Start with a 5-minute brisk walk or dynamic stretches. After running, spend a few minutes cooling down with gentle stretching to help prevent stiffness and soreness.
5. Track Your Progress
Using a journal, app, or smartwatch to track your runs helps you see progress over time and keeps you motivated. Start with a baseline run, and gradually push your limits by small increments each week. Seeing improvements, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost.
6. Listen to Your Body
It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you start running, but pain is a red flag. If you feel sharp or persistent pain, take a rest day and allow yourself to recover. Proper rest is crucial for building endurance and strength over time.
7. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in building a running routine. Aim for small, steady improvements each week rather than big jumps. Finding a running buddy, joining a local park run, or having an upbeat playlist can help you stay motivated on those days when getting out the door feels tough.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Whether it’s your first mile or first week without skipping a session, take time to celebrate! Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you excited about your progress.
Starting a running routine can be a life-changing decision that builds not just physical fitness but also mental resilience. So, lace up, stay positive, and enjoy the journey—your goals are just a run away!
Shop AYBL for the latest activewear to keep you motivated in achieving your fitness goals this year!
Top Activewear pieces to achieve your goals this year
It’s the new year and you’re ready to crush your gym goals and reach new PB’s, which means it’s time to invest in some new activewear pieces and you're in luck! We've got an endless supply of activewear pieces to make you look good and feel good when crushing the gym. This is the year you to be the best version of yourself so let's get it!
Adapt
Our newest collection has just launched and is ready and waiting for you to crush your goals! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable in the gym. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
The best part about this collection is that it offers versatility with the Sports Bra which can be worn in 4 different ways so you can style it however you wish!
Launched in 6 colours: Black, Slate, Green, Brown, Pink and Iris Blue and available in the below styles:
- Seamless Sports bra (worn 4 ways)
- Seamless Zip Jacket
- Seamless Crop top
- Seamless Shorts
- Seamless Leggings
So flex your style, adapt to your strength, and crush your goals with our latest Adapt collection. Shop here.
Empower
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in many styles such as Leggings, Shorts, Sports Bra, Crop top, Long Sleeve crop top and available in 26 colours you’ll be spoilt for choice!
So push your limits and look your best in our Empower Collection. Shop here.
Balance V3
Balance V3 is another one of our bestsellers and not to mention - a workout wardrobe essential! It supports you from daily workouts to PB achievements. With contour detailing, flattering v neckline shaping, and bold colours, it's a collection worth exploring.
Available in Shorts, Leggings, Sports Bra, Strappy Sports Bra, Zip Jacket & Crop Top and in 26 different colours - this collection is perfected for your performance to help smash your goals. Shop Balance V3 here.
Essential Bras
These are a must-have for any workout wardrobe, and we've got a range of flattering styles and colours to suit any leggings or shorts. Whether you prefer a classic racerback or something with a little more support, our essential bras are perfect for an effortless range of movements.
Shop Essential Bras here
So there you have it, outfits with your name on - ready for you to crush your goals this year! Remember, the right activewear not only enhances your performance but also motivates you to show up and give your best every day. If you're looking for even more collections or accessories to style with, head over to our website.
AYBL Now Available in JD Sports
WE’VE GOT BIG NEWS! 👀
We’re thrilled to announce that AYBL is now available in JD Sports stores across the UK, Scotland & Ireland!
You can now shop AYBL in real life at selected JD stores across the UK, Scotland, and Ireland. Discover our latest releases alongside your favourite best-sellers, all designed to fit your active lifestyle. Here’s everything you need to know about our in-store collections:
What are some of the store locations?
What items can you shop in-store?
Empower Collection
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports bra
- Full Zip Jacket
- Leggings
- Shorts
Adapt Collection
Get your hands on our newest collection launched this month! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable, and help you smash your gym goals. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports Bra
- Zip Jacket
- Leggings
Varsity Collection
Varsity, our trendiest loungewear collection yet. With a cool and playful edge, each piece is designed for comfort and effortless style. Varsity is the ultimate upgrade to your off-duty essentials. Made to wear as a pump cover or as a lounging set, it's everyone's go-to fit.
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
Not only have we launched in-store, but you can also shop AYBL online at JD Sports! Whether you prefer the ease of browsing from home or a fun shopping trip with the girls, JD is here to enhance your shopping experience with us like never before!
One collection that deserves your attention is the Sports Club Collection. Made for ultimate comfort, it features soft fleece-lined sweat fabric and an oversized fit, making it perfect to layer over your activewear for the gym or wear as a cozy lounging set. It’s the go-to fit everyone’s loving!
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
This is just the beginning—we can’t wait to see you shop AYBL IRL! Visit your nearest JD store to explore our AYBL fits’, and don’t forget to share your experience on socials by tagging us. See you there! Shop the full range of AYBL online at JD or visit us in-store to discover your favourites today!