For the last two years, I’ve been slowly collecting a few pieces of equipment that help me stay active when the weather is terrible or when I end up exercising after dark. I love being outside, but life happens! These tools help me keep my promise to myself: move my body every day.
If you’ve been thinking about creating a simple “backup plan” for your fitness, this post is for you.
1. Recumbent Bike
A recumbent bike lets you sit back in a comfortable seat with support for your lower back. It’s gentle on the body but still gives you a good workout. My heart rate goes up quickly on my bike.
Benefits
A recumbent bike is easy on your joints. Great if you have sore knees or sensitive hips. Having a real seat with a back supports your lower back. The seat makes it easier to sit upright and ride longer. I love that it is safe for beginners and people who are more frail. Until my mom’s memory deteriorated to the point she couldn’t remember what to do she rode a recumbent bicycle at her facility as part of her exercise. You can pedal slowly and increase speed as you get stronger. It is great for multitasking. You can watch TV, listen to a podcast, an audiobook, or even read.
What to Look For
A wide, comfortable seat with back support. Smooth pedaling so it doesn’t jerk or feel heavy. Stable frame that doesn’t wobble. Easy-to-read screen so you can track time, heart rate, and speed.
One Caution
Don’t slouch into the seat. Good posture helps protect your back and makes the ride more effective.
2. Walking Pad
A walking pad is a small, flat treadmill. It fits under a desk or in front of the TV and is perfect for getting steps in when you’re stuck inside.
Benefits
Helps you stay active on busy days. You can walk while answering emails, use under a standing desk, or watching the news. Walking pads are and easy to store. Many can fold and slide under a bed or sofa. Quieter than a regular treadmill. Great if you don’t want to disturb anyone. Low impact. Easy on your feet, knees, and hips.
What to Look For
A wide walking surface so you don’t feel crowded. A quiet motor if you live with others. Strong weight capacity for stability. Speed range that lets you walk slow or pick up the pace. I wish my walking pad had the ability to incline.
One Caution
Start slow and pay attention. It’s easy to drift to the edge while multitasking. If you have balance issues I would consider one with a handle.
The one I purchased is no longer available but there are lots of good options.
3. Vibration Plate
A vibration plate is a small platform that shakes gently to activate your muscles. You can stand, squat, or hold light weights on it.
Benefits
Helps with muscle activation. The vibration makes your muscles work harder. Great for balance and stability. Can help reduce stiffness. It’s wonderful on days you feel tight or sore. Short workouts still count. Even 10 minutes can feel great.
What to Look For
Adjustable vibration levels so you can start slow. A stable, non-slip surface for safety. A remote control that’s easy to use. Handles or straps if you want extra support.
One Caution
If you have any medical conditions (especially heart issues or joint replacements), check with your doctor before using one.
This is the one I have: Here
4. YouTube Workouts
YouTube is free, easy to access, and full of teachers who make working out fun. No equipment? No problem. No experience? Totally okay. There is something for every age and every fitness level.
Here are some types of workouts you can search for:
Balance and Core
Dr. Kaitie Has a YouTube Channel now! Move Strong Seniors
Grow Young Fitness Avoid Falls
Fabulous 50’s 9 Minute Balance Exercises
Cardio Options
Walking workouts Low-impact aerobics Beginner dance workouts Walk with Nick
Get Fit With Rick 80’s Walking Workout
Leslie Sansone 30 minute fitness walk
Petra Genco 20 minute workout
Senior Shape Fitness 30 minute walk
Lucy Wyndham-Read short workouts Workout Snack
Juice and Toya 20 minute HIIT workout
Stretches for Seniors- chair stretches
Yoga Options is Yoga with Adrienne
Gentle yoga Yoga for beginners Stretching for stiff bodies Yoga for balance Yoga with Kassandra
Weight Training Options
Its the Lab Its the LAB
Beginner dumbbell workouts 10-minute strength routines Full-body toning Strength for women over 50 Mad Fit
Lift With Cee 20 minute full body strength training
Chair Exercise
Chair yoga Seated strength training Seated cardio Balance and mobility routines Chair Yoga
Final Word: You Really Can Exercise Even When It’s Bad Weather Or After Dark
You don’t need a fancy gym or perfect weather to move your body. You just need a plan and a few tools that work for your life. Start small. Be patient. Celebrate every little win.
Whether you hop on the recumbent bike, take a walk on your walking pad, stand on the vibration plate, or turn on a free YouTube workout, your effort matters.
You are worth the time.
You are worth the care.
And yes, in fact, you can do this and I am rooting for you.
Much love friends,
Karen
Choosing to Reset 
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