Beginner Bodyweight Workout Routines Without Equipment
Routine 1: Full Body Blast
This routine targets all major muscle groups and can be completed in just 20 minutes. Start with a warm-up of dynamic stretches. Then, perform the following exercises for 30 seconds each, followed by a 30-second rest:- Push-ups – Keep your body straight and lower yourself until your chest is close to the ground.
- Air Squats – Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, lower into a squat, making sure your knees don’t extend past your toes.
- Plank – Hold a plank position on your forearms, keeping your body aligned from head to heels.
- Lunges – Step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about 90 degrees.
- Mountain Climbers – In a plank position, alternate bringing your knees to your chest rapidly.
Repeat the circuit three times, ensuring to cool down with light stretching.
Routine 2: Core Strength Focus
Devote this session entirely to building core strength, lasting about 15-20 minutes. After warming up, perform each exercise for 30 seconds, resting for 20 seconds between each:- Bicycle Crunches – Lying on your back, bring opposite elbow to knee while extending the other leg.
- Leg Raises – Lie flat, lift your legs straight up until they’re perpendicular to the ground, then lower slowly.
- Russian Twists – Sit on the floor with knees bent, lean back slightly and twist your torso side to side.
- Side Plank (15 seconds each side) – Lie on your side, propping yourself up on one forearm, keeping your body in a straight line.
- Flutter Kicks – Lying on your back, lift your legs slightly off the ground and alternate kicking them up and down.
Repeat the circuit two to three times, following each set with a gentle stretch.
Routine 3: Cardio and Endurance
For a quick cardio session, this routine combines bodyweight exercises to keep your heart rate up. It should take around 20-25 minutes. Start with a warm-up, then aim to move continuously through these exercises for 30 seconds each, resting for 20 seconds in between:- Jumping Jacks – Burst into action with this classic move to get your blood pumping.
- Burpees – Transition from standing to a squat, kicking your feet back to a push-up position, then jumping back up.
- High Knees – Run in place while driving your knees towards your chest.
- Skaters – Leap sideways in a skating motion, landing on one foot, alternating side to side.
- Tuck Jumps – Jump straight up, bringing your knees towards your chest.
Repeat this circuit three times for an effective endurance workout, concluding with a proper cool down.
These routines can be adapted to suit your level of fitness, and they require no equipment, making them perfect for any beginner keen to build strength and stamina at home.