We’ve all had those mornings when you wake up late, time is tight, or you don’t feel like going to the gym because it’s pouring rain and blowing a gale outside. But missing your normal routine doesn't mean you have to rule out moving your body entirely.
Getting some form of movement in the morning is crucial. A quick morning stretch actively lubricates your joints, jumpstarts your blood flow, and releases lingering overnight muscle tension. Even better, it acts as a natural wake-up call, shaking off the grogginess and leaving you sharper and more alert for the day ahead.
To help you get moving without leaving the house, Greg from our fitness team at Hurstville has put together a fast, effective routine you can do right in your living room.
The Workout Format
- Total Time: 15 Minutes
- Structure: 3 Rounds of 5 Exercises
- Timing: 45 seconds of work / 15 seconds of rest for each exercise
The Movements
1. Standing Wrist Rotation Mobility Stand tall, extend your arms, and slowly rotate your wrists in a circular motion. Complete 10–15 circles in one direction, then reverse.
2. Standing Arm Bend Extend both arms straight out in front of you at shoulder height. Slowly bend your elbows until they reach 90 degrees, pause, and straighten them back out. Keep your shoulders relaxed!
3. Standing Overhead Arm Raise Start with your arms at shoulder height, elbows bent to 90 degrees (like a goalpost). Keeping your torso upright, press your arms straight overhead until fully extended, then slowly lower back down.
4. Standing Hip Mobility Rotations Place your hands on your hips. Lift one knee to hip height and slowly rotate your hip outward in a controlled, circular motion before returning to the start. Switch sides.
5. Overhead Squat Extend both arms straight overhead, keeping them in line with your ears. Keeping your chest lifted, bend your knees and hips to lower into a squat. Press through your heels to stand back up.
Take a look at the exercises from Greg here, from 1 to 5 in order.
If this quick morning flow has you craving a longer stretch workout, take it to the next level at the gym. For a full, guided workout dedicated entirely to mobility and movement, be sure to check out our Hurstville Body Balance and Yoga classes on our brand new Group Fitness Timetable here!