Designate a space

You don't need much space to get in a workout at home, but you will need to carve out a space that allows you to move safely and without interruption. Depending on your fitness goals, this area can take different shapes.

When it comes to Pilates, says Marisol Reed, a San Fernando Valley-based personal trainer who works with clients over Zoom, you'll need enough room for a yoga mat. If possible, Reed has her clients set up near a doorknob, which she'll guide them to use with bands to mimic the movements that they might ordinarily do on a reformer. If you're doing a virtual session, you will need to also position your laptop to give your instructor a clear view. “I prefer if they have it further away so that I can see their whole bodies,” says Reed. “I need to be able to see them; otherwise, I don't know if they're lifting their leg the right way or if they're moving too much.”

For cardio, you might need more room to move. Shibata suggests you avoid working out under a ceiling fan or any kind of hanging fixture, particularly if your routine includes movements where you'll be raising your arms over your head.

“Be careful or mindful of the surrounding area,” he says.

Resistance bands are inexpensive and can take the place of large, clunky gym equipment when properly used.

where you've really got to move your feet back and forth across the ground, carpet will definitely burn,” he explains.

If you use workout videos, you've probably heard about or seen common household items that can be substituted for some pieces of gear. Books can take the place of yoga blocks. Chairs can stand in for barres when you need a little help with balance. Search online and you'll find tutorials on how you can use water bottles as weights, too.