Why just stand around waiting for your morning brew to drip through? Those few minutes are the perfect window for sneaking in some energizing exercises. No fancy equipment is needed.
From pulse-pumping countertop push-ups to balance-building single-leg stands, you can do plenty of quick, effective moves while the coffee is in the making. Stretch, strengthen, and get your blood flowing with these fast yet effective coffee maker workouts.
Get fit while your coffee drips
Below are 5 routines you can do while your coffee maker does its thing. There are many more possibilities, so feel free to use your imagination and adapt these to your needs and flexibility level.
1. The coffee plank challenge
How long does it take your coffee to brew? See if you can hold a plank for the entire time. Proper plank form engages your whole body. (Illustrations)
Prop yourself on your forearms and toes, forming a straight line from head to heels
Keep your core tight and don’t let your hips sag
Breathe steadily as you hold the position
To modify, drop to your knees but maintain a straight back
2. The sun salutation
Greet the day with this simple yoga flow while your coffee brews. (Illustration)
Stand tall with feet together and hands in prayer position
Inhale and sweep arms overhead
Exhale and fold forward, fingertips reaching for your toes
Inhale and lift halfway with a flat back
Exhale and step or jump back to plank
Lower halfway to the floor for a quick pushup
Inhale and lift your chest for cobra pose
Exhale and press back to downward dog
Take a few breaths then step or jump to the top of your mat
Rise to standing and repeat 2-3 times
3. Countertop stretches
Use your kitchen counter to stretch your calves, hamstrings and shoulders.
Step one foot back into a lunge stance with hands on the counter
Flex your back foot and press your heel down for a deep calf stretch
Hinge at your hips and fold your torso over your front leg, keeping it straight, to stretch your hamstrings
Grip the edge of the counter and walk your hands back, folding deeper until your head is between your arms
Breathe into your shoulder stretch then walk your hands back to the counter and switch legs
4. High knees and butt kicks
Get your heart rate up with 30 seconds of high knees followed by 30 seconds of butt kicks.
For high knees, quickly drive your knees up toward your chest one at a time as if running in place
Pump your arms and land lightly on the balls of your feet
After 30 seconds, switch to butt kicks by kicking your heels up to your glutes with each step
Alternate as many rounds as you can fit in
5. Wall squats with calf raises
Lean against the wall and slide down into a seated position with knees bent to 90 degrees.
Press your lower back into the wall and brace your core
Hold the squat and lift your heels for 10-15 calf raises
Stand up to release, then repeat the sequence until your coffee is ready
With these quick exercises, you’ll feel energized and ready to take on the day by the time you take your first sip. It’s an efficient way to sneak more movement into your morning without needing any extra time.
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