How to Build an Effective Home Workout Routine | Threadlight
Fitness Tips 4 min read

How to Build a Home Workout Routine That Actually Works

EW

Emma Wilson

8 Dec 2025

A young woman stretching in the living room.

No gym? No problem. Here's how to build a workout routine at home that actually gets results.

Start with Your Goals

Before you jump into anything, think about what you actually want. Building strength? Getting your cardio up? More flexible? All three? Your goals shape your routine.

And be realistic. If you're just starting, 3 workouts a week is plenty. You can always add more later.

The Basic Structure

A decent home workout routine needs:

  • Strength training (2-3 times per week) - bodyweight exercises or dumbbells
  • Cardio (2-3 times per week) - jumping jacks, burpees, dancing, or online workout videos
  • Flexibility work (2-3 times per week) - stretching or yoga
  • Rest days (1-2 per week) - essential for recovery

Quick Tip: Put your workouts in your calendar like they're meetings. Treat them the same way.

Sample Weekly Routine

Monday: 30-minute full body strength (squats, push-ups, lunges, planks)
Tuesday: 20-minute cardio (jumping jacks, high knees, mountain climbers)
Wednesday: Rest day or gentle yoga
Thursday: 30-minute upper body strength (push-ups, tricep dips, shoulder taps)
Friday: 25-minute lower body (squats, lunges, glute bridges, calf raises)
Saturday: 20-minute cardio or active fun (dance, walking, cycling)
Sunday: Rest day or stretching

Equipment (Or Not)

You can do loads with just bodyweight. But if you want to add some variety, these are useful:

  • Yoga mat (for comfort and grip)
  • Resistance bands (versatile and compact)
  • A set of dumbbells (10-20 lbs / 5-10 kg depending on your strength level)
  • Water bottle (stay hydrated!)

Total cost? Under $50/£40. But honestly, you can start with nothing and still make progress.

Actually Sticking With It

Doing something is always better than doing nothing. Here's what helps:

  • Start small: Even 10 minutes counts
  • Pick your time: Morning, lunch, evening - whatever works
  • Track it: Take photos, write it down, whatever helps you see progress
  • Change it up: Keeps things interesting
  • Don't beat yourself up: Missed a day? Just pick it back up tomorrow

Dress for Success

The right activewear makes a difference. When you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing, you're more likely to show up for your workout. Our leggings and sports bras are designed to move with you, whether you're at home or heading out.

Shop Workout Essentials

Bottom Line

The best workout routine is the one you'll actually do. Keep it simple, stay consistent, and adjust as you go. In a few weeks you'll be surprised at how much progress you can make from your living room.

Just start. That's honestly the hardest part.

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