5 Quick Morning Workouts You Can Do When You're Short of Time

A morning workout definitely sounds like a good idea, and pretty sure you’re aware of its benefits: AM exercises boost your metabolism so that you burn more calories throughout the day. They increase your productivity, make you happy, and most of all - help you accomplish your fitness goals!

But no matter how much you know and how motivated you are, you can’t seem to make time for fitness. Here’s the thing: You don't get results if you don’t find a way to squeeze in just fifteen minutes for a workout. Yes, fifteen minutes is all you need to spare. That would mean waking up 20 minutes earlier. That won’t hurt, right? Do it consistently and it’ll become a natural part of your day.

Below, we share five quick workouts to wake your muscles up and ensure you get results - whether you’re preparing for cheer tryouts, already a pro cheerleader, or a veteran.

Workout #1: Plank with Shoulder Touches

The plank with shoulder touches is a great workout for boosting the strength of your abs, shoulders, and arms. All you need are 2-3 sets of 15 repetitions. This movement also improves shoulder stability, making you less prone to injuries. To perform this exercise, begin in a plank position and maintain a flat back. Lift one arm off the floor and touch your opposite shoulder. Lower that arm and repeat the same move now using the opposite arm.

Workout #2: Mock Jumping Rope

When you dislike going outside your home to jog, mock jumping rope offers the same benefits. It’s one of the best cardio moves that increase your heart rate and burn over 1,000 calories per hour. But you don’t have to do a mock jump rope for a full hour! The goal is to do as many jumps as you can in 3 minutes. Choose a flat surface, stand with your feet hip-distance apart. Pretend that you’re actually using a jump rope to maximize the movement.

Workout #3: Jumping Lunges

Experts recommend jumping lunges as an effective plyometric move. Jumping lunges build your stability and the strength of your legs. There are many leg muscles engaged in this workout: hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and hip flexors. So if you want to run faster and better, be sure to add jump lunges to your quick AM routine.

Workout #4: Jump Squats

Here’s another quick and powerful workout that involves jumping. If you did the previous workouts on this list, by the time you do squat jumps you’re fully alert already. Squat jumps tones your legs and thighs. Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Lower down into a squat position. Jump explosively with your hands up in the air. Land back into the squat position while maintaining control. The advanced version of this workout requires the use of dumbbells.

Workout #5: The Russian Twist

Achieving a flatter and stronger abdomen is impossible if you don’t combine ab workouts with the right diet. When it comes to the best ab exercises, be sure to do the Russian twist. An intermediate-level workout, it targets your lower abs and strengthens your spine. You need a stable spine to be able to execute those pro cheer dance moves in a safe and effective manner!

Waking up a little earlier than your usual time is the ultimate trick to getting this morning workout done. Do all five moves or pick at least three. For an added challenge, add weights or increase the repetitions.

Interested in more fitness advice? Check these out:

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