Bodyweight Exercises Part II

THE NO-EXCUSES HOTEL ROOM BODYWEIGHT WORKOUT:

PART 2 – UPPER BODY/CORE\"susanne2\"

Last month, we featured the lower-body movements, which are much easier to perform with ONLY bodyweight – easier from the perspective of having a lot of options. The reason is that certain upper-body movements need some sort of device or apparatus to help us resist gravity. For example, how can you do a pull-up with just your bodyweight? The closest we can get to that would be pull-ups in a doorway that just happens to have a bar across it – unless your fingers and hands are so strong, that you can hang from the door molding. And, along the same lines, how can you do a lat pull-down with just your bodyweight, other than isometrics?
But, we promised a NO-EXCUSES upper-body workout. So, we\’re suggesting movements including those that can utilize tools or devices found in most hotel rooms. For example, water bottles can take the place of dumb bells. The edge of a bed, couch, chair or desk can increase/decrease leverage/intensity. Even lifting a chair can be used for those looking for more of a challenge. In addition, the \”core\” will be involved with some, too, in order to pull them off (no pun intended).
For a well-rounded, complete upper-body workout, there are 5 planes of motion (or positions) that should be addressed:

Prone (Face Down):

  1. Ts, Ys, Ws, Ls, Ms (Scapula Retractions)
  2. Elbow Planks (many variations when you include leg movements – see next issue)
  3. High Planks (ditto)
  4. High-to-Low Planks (ditto)
  5. High-Plank Lat Pulls/Drags
  6. Push-ups (wide grip, close grip, triangle, on fists/fingertips)
  7. Seal Push-ups
  8. Downward Dogs
  9. Renegade Rows
  10. Bent Rows
  11. Bent Flyes
  12. Burpees (technically full-body, but definitely taxes the upper body)
  13. Bear Crawls (ditto)
   

Sagittal (Front/Back):

  1. Chin-ups (if there is a doorway bar)
  2. Chest Presses (wide and close grip; kneeling, sitting or standing)
  3. Close-grip Overhead Presses
  4. Tricep Overhead Extensions
  5. Tricep Dips (on couch or chair)
  6. Traditional Bicep Curls
  7. Preacher Curls
  8. Shoulder Front Raises
  9. Shoulder Front Push-downs (on a desk)
  10. Scaptions
  11. Towel Wrings
   

Vertical (Frontal/Lateral):

  1. Handstands (free or against wall)
  2. Handstand Push-ups (ditto)
  3. Pull-ups (if there is a doorway bar)
  4. Lat Pull-downs (ditto)
  5. Wide-grip Overhead Presses
  6. Upright Rows
  7. Cuban Presses
  8. Shoulder ABDuctions
  9. Shoulder ADDuctions
  10. Side Planks (see variations in next issue)
  11. Side-lying Tricep Dips

Horizontal (Transverse/Rotational):

  1. Shovels
  2. Chops
  3. Palloffs

Supine (Face Up):

  1. Chest Presses (wide and close grip)
  2. Skull Crushers (lying on the bed)
  3. Batwings
  4. Overhead Flexions
As with any fitness endeavor, you should always get clearance from your appropriate Medical Professionals. If you need help designing a program, always contact a Certified Fitness Professional. Coming next issue is The No-Excuses Hotel Room Bodyweight Workout: Part III – The Planks!
Susanne is ready to give you a hand. Contact Susanne today!

Be A Little Better Everyday

Establishing positive daily habits is a powerful way to create long-lasting changes and improve your overall well-being. By incorporating these nine simple habits into your routine, you can positively impact your physical health, mental clarity, and personal growth. Let’s dive into these habits and explore the benefits they bring to your life.

One Hour of Exercise

Engaging in at least one hour of exercise daily helps boost your energy levels, promotes weight management, and strengthens your cardiovascular system. Regular exercise also releases endorphins, improving your mood and reducing stress. If you aren’t sure how to get started, hire a personal trainer.

Two Liters of Water

Staying properly hydrated by consuming two liters of water per day promotes healthy digestion, enhances cognitive function, and supports overall cellular health. Water also aids in flushing out toxins from your body and helps maintain healthy skin.

Three Cups of Tea

Drinking three cups of tea, such as green, herbal, or black tea, provides a host of benefits, including antioxidant protection, improved digestion, and enhanced immune function. Tea can also help relax the mind and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Four Colors on Your Plate

Including a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your meals ensures a broad range of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. The vibrant colors indicate the presence of beneficial phytochemicals, which help reduce inflammation, support a strong immune system, and promote optimal health.

Five Minutes of Meditation

Taking just five minutes each day to practice meditation can improve focus, reduce anxiety and stress, and promote emotional well-being. It allows you to cultivate mindfulness, gain mental clarity, and develop a sense of inner peace.

Six Songs that Motivate You

Listening to six motivational songs each day can uplift your mood, boost motivation, and provide a positive outlook. Music has the power to inspire, evoke emotions, and drive you towards achieving your goals.

Seven Minutes of Laughter

Laughter is indeed the best medicine. Devote seven minutes to engaging in activities that bring joy and laughter, whether it’s watching a funny video, spending time with loved ones, or reading jokes. Laughter reduces stress, enhances immune function, and improves overall well-being.

Eight Hours of Sleep

Getting a restful eight hours of sleep every night is crucial for your physical and mental health. Quality sleep supports brain function, promotes optimal hormone regulation, and aids in the body’s repair and recovery processes.

Read Nine Pages of a Book

Dedicating time to read nine pages of a book each day enhances knowledge, expands creativity, and improves cognitive abilities. Reading provides mental stimulation, reduces stress, and offers a valuable opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection. Incorporating these nine daily habits into your routine can lead to transformative changes in your life. From physical fitness and hydration to mental well-being and personal growth, each habit contributes to your overall health and happiness. Remember, change happens gradually, so start by incorporating one or two habits at a time and gradually build upon them. Embrace these habits as a lifestyle, and you’ll witness the positive impact they have on your well-being. Start today and embark on a journey towards a happier, healthier you.

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