If you’re like most, Monday seems to come faster every week, and the weekend seems to whiz by in a heartbeat. But no matter how busy your week may be, there it is: your ‘case of the Mondays’ has come on full force—leading you to be preoccupied with how much fun you had last Saturday instead of productive. Here’s some morning exercise ideas to get you mentally and physically ready for your busy day ahead!
The Windshield Wiper (You Don’t Even Have to Get Out of Bed!)
This is the perfect exercise to do just as you’ve hit the alarm, and before you have a chance to mentally go through your ‘to-do’ list for your busy Monday ahead. The windshield wiper exercise will energize you, while giving you a core workout. Start by lying down on your back (making sure it’s completely straight) and lean your body (with knees bent as though you’re doing a half-fetus position) to the left. Extend your arms to each side, and while inhaling. Lift your legs up and over to the other side. Inhale and exhale deeply while switching from side to side.
Bicycle Crunches
If you’re a fan of bike riding, you’ll love the energetic boost this exercise gives you! Start off lying down with your arms on either side of you. Place your hands behind your head or keep your arms flat out to either side—just pick the one that is more comfortable to you. Then, lift yourself up as though you’re doing a crunch and as you do, bring one leg up at a time. Bend your knee and move them as though you’re riding a bike. As you bring your left leg up, shift your body slightly so that it turns towards your left leg. As your right leg up, shift your body (using the strength from your abdominals) to get you there. Repeat for as long as you can, ensuring that your movements and steady and controlled.
The Jumping Jack Boot Camp Workout
Now it’s time to get off your bed and stand on the floor. Start with 45 seconds to one full minute of jumping jacks. Follow it up with 30 seconds of push-ups. Then add another minute of bicycle crunches (extra core work never hurt anyone!) and lastly, do 30-40 lunges. You can do those lunges anywhere your home will permit: your bedroom, a hallway or back and forth in your living room.
Having a ‘case of the Mondays’ is normal. But the key to being exceptional? Early morning exercises to energize and rejuvenate your body and mind. When you start your day off with windshield wipers, bicycle crunches and jumping jacks, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and your deadlines!
