Best 5 Full Body Bodyweight Exercises for Small Spaces
Best 5 Full Body Bodyweight Exercises for Small Spaces
Struggling to find time for the gym or feeling intimidated by crowded workout spaces? If you're a busy professional working out from home, especially in a small apartment, you’re not alone. The good news is that you can achieve a complete full-body workout using just your body weight, no equipment needed, and only a small space required.
Quick Stats Box:
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes including warm-up and cool-down
- Equipment Needed: No equipment
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Calories Burned: Approximately 150-250 calories depending on intensity
Warm-Up (5 minutes)
Start with a quick warm-up to get your blood flowing and muscles ready for action.
- Arm Circles - 30 seconds (15 seconds forward, 15 seconds backward)
- High Knees - 30 seconds
- Bodyweight Squats - 1 minute
- Torso Twists - 1 minute
- Leg Swings - 1 minute (30 seconds per leg)
Full Body Exercises
1. Push-Up (Standard or Knee Push-Up)
- Reps: 10-15 reps
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels; squeeze your glutes.
- Modification: Drop to your knees for an easier version.
2. Bodyweight Squat
- Reps: 15-20 reps
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Push through your heels and keep your chest up.
- Modification: Perform shallow squats if you need an easier version.
3. Plank to Shoulder Tap
- Reps: 10 taps per side
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Keep your hips stable; avoid swaying as you tap your shoulders.
- Modification: Drop to your knees for a modified plank.
4. Reverse Lunge
- Reps: 10-12 reps per leg
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Step back far enough to keep your front knee over your ankle.
- Modification: Perform stationary lunges if moving is challenging.
5. Glute Bridge
- Reps: 15-20 reps
- Sets: 3 sets
- Rest: 30 seconds between sets
- Form Cue: Squeeze your glutes at the top and hold for 2 seconds.
- Modification: Keep your feet closer for an easier version.
Exercise Summary Table
| Exercise | Reps | Sets | Rest | |------------------------------|------------------|------|--------------| | Push-Up | 10-15 reps | 3 | 30 seconds | | Bodyweight Squat | 15-20 reps | 3 | 30 seconds | | Plank to Shoulder Tap | 10 taps per side | 3 | 30 seconds | | Reverse Lunge | 10-12 reps/leg | 3 | 30 seconds | | Glute Bridge | 15-20 reps | 3 | 30 seconds |
Cool-Down (3-5 minutes)
Finish your workout with these stretches to help with recovery:
- Standing Forward Bend - 1 minute
- Seated Hamstring Stretch - 1 minute (30 seconds per leg)
- Child’s Pose - 1 minute
Complete in: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion and Next Steps
You’ve just completed a full-body workout that fits perfectly in your small space. Aim to do this routine 3 times a week with rest days in between for optimal recovery. As you progress, consider increasing the reps or sets, or try to perform the exercises with a slower tempo for added intensity.
For more personalized guidance, consider signing up for live 1-on-1 video training with certified trainers who can provide real-time feedback.
Get Personalized Coaching with Real-Time Feedback
Live 1-on-1 sessions with certified trainers. HSA/FSA eligible. Try your first session free.