We have all been there: we finally get the motivation to work out but then we realize we have already washed our hair and done our makeup so sweating is simply not an option.
And so we use it as our excuse to not exercise that day because we all know that if you do not break a sweat then you haven’t really done any work… Right? Turns out, that is not always the case. Here are a few ways to work on your fitness without working up a sweat:
1. Hold it
A body in motion burns more calories than one standing still, however, that does not mean that holding a single position does not work your muscles. Try holding a wall squat for 30 seconds and you will see what I mean. Your muscles will be begging you for a break but your brow will be sweat-free.
2. Straighten your arms and legs
Have you ever noticed that it is much harder to hold a forearm plank than it is to have your palms against the ground? That is because your body has to work harder to keep your joints bent that it does when they’re straight.
Instead of sweating out a plank on your elbows, raise up to your hands and hold that position for as long as you can. You will not get sweaty but your core and shoulders will still get a great workout.
More: 21 Powerful Butt Exercises
3. Lose the weights and props
Exercise props like balls and levels are great for working on your balance and engaging your core but they’ll also work on your heart rate and get you sweating. The same goes for weights. Try the same motions without the tools for a less sweaty challenge.
4. Speed up, slow down
When you are working your big muscles, try to keep a quicker speed. It may sound crazy, but this is actually going to make it feel easier. On the other hand, when working single joints and doing small movements, slow those down and prevent sweating.
5. Take a break
Instead of blasting through your reps, take a break between exercises and let your heart rate slow down a little before jumping into the next round.
6. Be the tortoise
Eventually, you are going to have to get sweaty if you want to drop some serious weight. But that is not what I am talking about here. If staying dry is your goal for the day, stick to slow and controlled motions instead of anything that’s high-intensity.
7. Know when to call it a day
Listen to your body and let it tell you when it is time to stop for the day. The length of your routine depends on your fitness level so don’t think you will last the same amount of time as your buddy.
To avoid a sweat, let your last round be the one that pushes and challenges you but doesn’t feel impossible. When you start to struggle too much, it is time to call it a day.
More: 8 Simple Exercises You Can Do Anywhere
Some days you have to get down and dirty if you are going to get the results that you want from working out but we know that’s not possible every day. So, on those “dry” days, stick to the tips above and you will be able to go back to work or out at night without having to shower and reapply your makeup.
The goal is to be active, plain and simple! Remember, even if you are taking the slower route you are still passing everyone on the couch.
