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Home fitness gym beginners workout

Move With Confidence: A 10-Minute Full-Body Home Workout With Lisa Marley

When time is tight but your body’s craving movement, this energising 10-minute full-body workout is your go-to solution. Created in collaboration with food & fitness...

When time is tight but your body’s craving movement, this energising 10-minute full-body workout is your go-to solution. Created in collaboration with food & fitness expert and personal trainer Lisa Marley, a partner at Study Active, this session is perfect for beginners looking to build strength, balance, and consistency—from the comfort of home.

Whether you're just starting out or getting back into a routine, this is your moment to pause, prioritise yourself, and move your body with purpose. Using our beautifully designed, functional Amp Wellbeing equipment, this routine helps increase intensity at your pace. Start with body weight and add resistance as you grow stronger. It’s all about building confidence through progress.

Why It Works

This is a low-impact, high-benefit workout designed to fit into real life. In just 10 minutes, you’ll work all the major muscle groups, activate your core, and boost your energy—no gym required. It’s also a fantastic foundation to build consistency and reconnect with your body through mindful, intentional movement.

 

Warm-Up (1–2 Minutes)

Get your body ready to move and prevent injury by easing into the session:

  • Arm Circles – Loosen tight shoulders
  • Arm Swing & Pull – Open up the chest
  • Leg Swings – Improve hip mobility and flexibility

 

The Workout: Full-Body Strength and Stability (8 Minutes)

Each of these beginner-friendly moves can be performed with or without weights. As you build strength and confidence, incorporate your favourite Amp dumbbells, ankle wrist weights or Weighted Pilates balls to elevate the challenge.

Start by performing each exercise for 10–12 reps (or 30 seconds per side for unilateral movements like lunges). Do 1 round for a 10-minute workout. As your confidence and strength grow, increase to 2–3 rounds, We recommend using the 2.5kg/5kg pair Amp dumbbells or 3kg pair weighted Pilates balls to increase intensity.

If you're just getting started, begin with body weight only and focus on form and breath control. Once the movements feel comfortable and stable, introduce 1–2kg weights, increasing as your strength improves.

 

home workout beginner 10 minute

1. Suitcase Squats

Targets: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, core

Holding 2.5kg weighted bars, stand with feet shoulder-width apart, arms at your sides.

  • Lower your hips back and down like you’re sitting in a chair.
  • Keep your chest lifted and knees aligned over toes.
  • Press through your heels to return to standing.

Beginner Tip: Keep hands on your hips for balance.

Progression: Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides (like carrying a suitcase).

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

2. Knee Lifts

Targets: Core, hip flexors, balance

Stand tall, engage your core, and hold your dumbbells steady in your hands.

  • Lift one knee to hip height, hold for a moment, then lower.
  • Switch sides and repeat, moving with control.

Beginner Tip: Place hands on your hips or out to the sides for stability

Progression: Hold a light weight in each hand or add wrist/ankle weights.

Start with: 10 reps per side.

 

3. Deadlifts

Targets: Hamstrings, glutes, lower back

Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, hold your 2.5kg dumbbells in each hand.

  • Hinge at the hips (not waist), keeping your back flat.
  • Lower the weights (or hands) to mid-shin, slight bend in knees.
  • Squeeze glutes to return to standing.

Beginner Tip: Practice first with no weights to master the hip hinge.

Progression: Add Amp dumbbells and increase load gradually.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

home gym beginner

4. Side Lunges

Targets: Inner and outer thighs, glutes, hips

Step your right foot out to the side, holding your dumbells in your hands.

  • Bend your right knee and push hips back, keeping left leg straight.
  • Return to start and repeat on the other side.

Beginner Tip: Step shorter to start and build deeper range over time.

Progression: Hold a dumbbell at your chest or one in each hand, increase the weight as you progress.

Start with: 8–10 reps per side.

 

home gym fitness

 

5. Reverse Lunges

Targets: Glutes, quads, hamstrings, core

Step one foot back and lower your back knee toward the floor, holding the weights in your hands.

  • Keep your front knee stacked over your ankle.
  • Push through the front heel to return to standing.

Beginner Tip: Hold onto a chair or wall for balance if needed.

Progression: Add dumbbells at your sides or a single weight at your chest.

Start with: 8 reps per side.

 

6. Forward Lunges

Targets: Quads, glutes, calves, balance.

Holding your weights in your hands, step forward with one foot and lower into a lunge.

  • Keep your chest upright and both knees at 90 degrees.
  • Push off the front foot to return to start.

Beginner Tip: Keep movements small and controlled.

Progression: Add Amp dumbbells to increase resistance.

Start with: 8 reps per side.

home gym beginner

 

7. Bent-Over Row

Targets: Upper back, shoulders, arms

Hinge at the hips with a flat back, knees slightly bent.

  • Hold weights or Weighted Pilates balls, palms facing in.
  • Pull the weights toward your ribs, elbows close to your body.
  • Squeeze shoulder blades, then lower slowly.

Beginner Tip: Start with light weights and perfect your posture.

Progression: Increase dumbbell weight or time under tension.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

8. Skull Crusher

Targets: Triceps, shoulders

Lie down (on a mat or bench) with weights extended above your head.

  • Keep elbows in as you lower the weights toward your forehead.
  • Pause, then press the weights back up.

Beginner Tip: Use 1–2kg dumbbells or Pilates balls to begin.

Progression: Increase reps or weight slowly.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

9. Chest Press

Targets: Chest, shoulders, triceps

Lie on your back, feet flat on the floow and hold your weights at chest level.

·       Press your arms straight up.

  • Lower slowly and repeat.

Beginner Tip: Focus on steady control through the full range.

Progression: Increase weight or try with resistance bands.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

home gym and studio weights dumbbells

10. Pec Fly

Targets: Chest, shoulders

Lie down holding your weights directly above your chest.

  • With a slight bend in your elbows, open arms wide
  • Bring weights back together at the top

Beginner Tip: Start with low weight to avoid shoulder strain.

Progression: Add more weight or pause at the bottom of the movement.

Start with: 8–10 reps.

 

11. Dumbbell Crunches

Targets: Core, upper abs

Lie on your back with knees bent, hold a weight at your chest.

  • Engage your core and lift your shoulders off the mat.
  • Lower slowly and repeat.

Beginner Tip: No weight needed to start—just focus on form.

Progression: Add weight once movement feels solid.

Start with: 10–12 reps.

 

12. Side Plank (Left & Right)

Targets: Core, obliques, shoulders

Lie on your side, elbow under shoulder and stack your feet and lift hips, keeping your body in a straight line.

  • Hold for time, then switch sides

Beginner Tip: Drop your bottom knee to the floor for extra support.

Progression: Extend the hold (start at 15–20 seconds, build to 30+).

Start with: 15–30 seconds per side.

Cool Down (1–2 Minutes)

  • Hamstring Stretch – Reach forward and lengthen the back of your legs
  • Deep Breathing – Relax, reset, and return to your day feeling strong

 Want to follow along with Lisa? Watch the full workout on YouTube here.

 

Meet Your Trainer: Lisa Marley

https://lisamarleylifestyle.com/

Lisa Marley is a certified personal trainer, health & wellness coach, and trained chef passionate about plant-based living and holistic wellbeing. She specialises in behavioural change coaching—helping clients set realistic goals, overcome obstacles, and develop strategies for lasting success.

Her 30-minute personal training sessions, offered online and in-person, are designed to maximise efficiency while fostering consistency. Lisa combines movement with mindful nutrition to help you feel energised, strong, and empowered—body and mind.

“My ultimate aim is to optimise your body’s efficiency, reduce inflammation, enhance muscle responsiveness, and boost your performance—so you can thrive today and into the future.” – Lisa Marley

  Why This Workout Belongs in Your Routine

  • Quick, convenient, and accessible—perfect for busy days.
  • Builds strength, balance, and coordination.
  • Beginner-friendly, with room to grow using Amp resistance tools.
  • Ideal for starting (or restarting) your fitness journey.

This is fitness designed for real life—with equipment that inspires you to move every day. Wherever you are in your wellness journey, Amp is here to support you with tools that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Ready to get moving? Explore our full range of premium fitness equipment to bring the gym home—stylish tools to elevate your workouts, at home or in the studio.

> Shop the Collection
> Workout Centre – More Free Routines

 

Why Meditation Might Be the Most Important Thing You Do for Your Wellbeing This Year

Why Meditation Might Be the Most Important Thing You Do for Your Wellbeing This Year

In today’s fast-paced world, stress and mental fatigue have become the norm—but they don’t have to be. As deadlines pile up, social feeds scroll endlessly,...

In today’s fast-paced world, stress and mental fatigue have become the norm—but they don’t have to be.

As deadlines pile up, social feeds scroll endlessly, and our calendars fill to the brim, it’s no wonder so many of us feel like we’re living in a constant state of go-go-go. But what if the answer to feeling calmer, stronger, and more connected wasn’t doing more—but actually doing less?

That’s where meditation comes in.

lady in yoga post

“Meditation has been the anchor that’s brought me back to myself. Whenever I feel disconnected or that I’m losing myself amongst the craziness of life, it brings me back to this space where everything feels not just manageable again but almost magical.”

Rima, The Grounded Yogi

 

 

 

The Science-Backed Benefits of Meditation

Reduces Stress and Cortisol Levels

Stress isn’t just a feeling—it’s a physical state. When you're under pressure, your body produces more cortisol, the hormone responsible for the fight-or-flight response. Chronic stress leads to fatigue, anxiety, digestive issues, and more.

Meditation has been shown to significantly reduce cortisol levels, creating space for your nervous system to reset. Just 10 minutes a day can start to break the cycle of chronic tension and can reduce physical and emotional tension. 

Enhances Focus and Cognitive Function

Modern life is full of distractions—and our ability

 to concentrate is under threat. Meditation trains the brain to focus on one thing at a time, which helps improve working memory, attention span, and mental clarity.

This is especially helpful for those juggling work, family, and personal wellness. A regular meditation practice strengthens your ability to stay present, think clearly, and make better decisions—without mental overload, as seen in this Harvard Health study demonstrating the benefits of meditation on calming the mind. 

Studies also show the benefits of yoga beyond the mat for inner awareness, presence, a better body image, being a mindful eater, as well as to boost weight loss, strength and fitness. Therefore combining meditation and movement can have increased benefits for your daily state of wellbeing. You will find a restorative and relaxing flow to help you get started here.

Yoga blog image featuring a woman practicing yoga

Improves Emotional Regulation

We can’t always control what life throws at us—but we can control how we respond. Meditation gives you the space to pause before reacting. It helps reduce emotional reactivity and increases self-awareness, making you more patient, compassionate, and resilient.

For women navigating motherhood, career demands, or hormonal changes, meditation can be a powerful anchor to stay emotionally balanced. With regular practice, meditation helps you become less reactive and more grounded in daily life.

Boosts Immune Function

Chronic stress weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Meditation supports immune resilience by calming inflammation and improving overall immune response.

Even short daily sessions can help regulate the body's stress response and improve physical health, making it easier to bounce back from illness—and stay well with meditation supporting immune health by reducing stress’s impact on the body.

Supports Heart Health

Your heart doesn’t just respond to your physical activity—it also responds to your stress levels. Meditation has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and support overall cardiovascular health.

Incorporating mindfulness into your routine may help reduce the risk of heart-related conditions over time, making it a preventative tool for long-term wellbeing. Lower blood pressure, improved circulation, and heart rhythm balance are all linked to mindfulness practices.

Encourages Better Sleep

If your mind races the moment your head hits the pillow, meditation might be your missing bedtime ritual. Guided meditations and breathwork calm your nervous system and prepare your body for rest.

Meditation can reduce insomnia, decrease night time waking, and improve sleep quality—helping you feel more restored and energised the next day.

Meditation soothes your nervous system and preps your body for more restful, restorative sleep.

Enhances Overall Wellbeing

Beyond the measurable benefits, meditation helps cultivate a deeper sense of peace, gratitude, and joy. It connects you to the present moment, helping you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed—even when life is busy. For more details on how movement can support your mental health, read our latest blog post here.

Over time, it shifts your mindset from one of survival to one of intentional living, where self-care becomes a rhythm rather than a reward.


Try This: 7-Minute Body Scan Meditation

Looking for a gentle, accessible way to get started?

Try this calming 7-minute body scan meditation by Rima, The Grounded Yogi — it’s designed to help you relax, reset, and reconnect in just a few minutes.

Download your meditation here.

lady in yoga post

 

Start Small, Start Now

You don’t need hours of silence or a mountain retreat. Just a few minutes a day of intentional stillness can transform how you move through life.

Whether you're new to meditation or returning to it, this is your invitation to come home to yourself.

Pink fitness mat recycled TPE cushioned

Ready to Feel More Grounded?

Explore our collection of beautiful, functional mindfulness tools—from massage balls, rollers, yoga blocks and mats:

Shop Mindfulness Essentials at Amp Wellbeing

 

How to Build a Home Gym on a Budget

How to Build a Home Gym on a Budget

Written by Mia Barnes Creating a home gym doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can set...

Written by Mia Barnes

Creating a home gym doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can set up a functional workout space without spending a fortune. Whether you’re into strength training or cardio, here’s how to make it work on a budget.

Prioritise the Essentials

You don’t need fancy machines to get a great workout in. Focus on versatile, affordable equipment like:


Use What You Have

Before buying anything, check what’s already in your home. A sturdy chair or ottoman can double as a workout bench, and towels (or paper plates!) can replace sliders for core workouts. Even a backpack filled with books (or adding hand weights to your coat pocket) can act as a weighted vest.


Find Budget-Friendly Alternatives

A gym membership can be pricey; however, creating a home gym and investing in durable, quality equipment you only buy once is a great long-term alternative to keep exercising. It is even better when you don't have to spend time and money driving to get there!

If new equipment isn’t in the budget, look for second-hand options. Check Facebook
Marketplace, Ebay or charity shops. Many people sell barely used fitness equipment for a fraction of the price.


Focus on Bodyweight Exercises

You don’t even need equipment to build strength. Squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks are all effective and free. Bodyweight movements are a fantastic way to build muscle and improve balance. Combine them into circuits for a full-body workout.

Core sliders are a great way to add resistance and strength to bodyweight workouts on a budget without weights.


Get Creative With Cardio

Treadmills and stationary bikes can be pricey, but there are other options. If you can't get out for a run, try high knees, jumping jacks, HIIT (think Joe Wicks) or dance workouts on You Tube. Low-impact cardio like Pilates or Vinyasa yoga can help you deal with chronic conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis. Walking is a great, low impact cardio workout with so many health benefits, and it's free!


Make Use of Free Online Resources

Skip the expensive workout programmes. YouTube has thousands of free workout videos, from yoga to strength training. Fitness apps often have free versions with great workouts, too. We have downloadable workouts available in our Workout Centre to help you get started.


Create a Motivating Space

Your home gym doesn’t need to be fancy. Just clear a small area and keep it organised. A
corner of your living room, garage or even outdoor patio can work. Keeping your equipment in one place helps create a habit of working out regularly. A yoga mat
or foam tiles can make hard floors more comfortable. A mirror — even a small one — can help with form.

Peak strength weighted triangle - Ampwellbeing


Make Your Own Equipment

If you’re handy, you can build some of your own workout equipment. A sandbag or plastic bottle filled with rice can replace traditional weights. A duffel bag stuffed with heavy objects makes a great DIY weight for deadlifts and squats. You can even fill an old basketball with sand to use as a homemade medicine ball. You can read about the benefits of adding light weights to your exercise regime here.


Upgrade Over Time

There’s no need to buy everything at once — start with the essentials and upgrade as your fitness goals evolve. Begin with resistance bands and bodyweight workouts, then add weights and other equipment when your budget allows. The key is to prioritise what you’ll use and invest in quality pieces instead of buying equipment that might collect dust.


Stay Consistent

A home gym is only effective if you use it, so find workouts you enjoy and set a schedule that works for you rather than makes fitness harder. Even short workouts done consistently will lead to progress. The beauty of a home gym is that you have full control over your space and routine. Find our latest blog post here on how to create a consistent routine as part of your daily life that you can stick to.

 

home gym pretty stylish elegant

Make the Most of Your Home Gym

Creating a home gym on a budget is completely possible. Whether you’re shopping  second hand or using free workout resources, there are plenty of ways to stay fit without spending a fortune. The most important thing is to get started and stay committed to your fitness journey.

The Ultimate Weighted Pilates Balls Workout Routine for Strength, Stability, and Flexibility

The Ultimate Weighted Pilates Balls Workout Routine for Strength, Stability, and Flexibility

If you want to enhance your Pilates practice or add a fresh, effective twist to your fitness routine, incorporating Weighted Pilates balls is the way...

If you want to enhance your Pilates practice or add a fresh, effective twist to your fitness routine, incorporating Weighted Pilates balls is the way to go. These compact, versatile tools are perfect for increasing resistance, boosting core engagement, and promoting overall body strength and stability.

Whether you're a Pilates enthusiast or a beginner exploring fitness with weighted equipment, this routine offers a balanced blend of strength training, core activation, flexibility, and relaxation. Plus, it’s low-impact, making it accessible to all fitness levels and ages.

 

Weighted Pilates ball - 3kg pair pink

Why Use Weighted Pilates Balls?

Weighted Pilates balls are small but mighty. They add resistance to traditional Pilates exercises, enhancing their benefits by:

  • Engaging deeper muscle fibres
  • Improving balance and stability
  • Supporting joint mobility
  • Boosting calorie burn and metabolism

By integrating these weighted balls into your workout, you’ll notice significant improvements in muscle tone, core strength, and functional fitness, all while enjoying a safe, joint-friendly exercise. Plus they are gorgeous to hold and fit in the palm of your hand, making them easy, comfortable and enjoyable to use.

 

35-40 Minute Weighted Pilates Ball Workout Routine

This Pilates workout is designed to maximise the benefits of incorporating weighted Pilates balls. Perform each exercise slowly and with control, focusing on form and breathwork.

Warm-Up (5 Minutes)

Prepping your body is essential for preventing injuries and improving performance. Start with these Standing Roll Downs to wake up your spine and core.

Standing Roll Downs with Weighted Ball

Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding the weighted ball in both hands.

Inhale as you reach the ball overhead, and exhale as you roll down, vertebra by vertebra, bringing the ball towards the floor.

Inhale at the bottom, and exhale as you roll back up, stacking your spine.

Repeat 6 times to increase mobility and warm up your body.

You could always do these seated as well.

lady in fitness studio performing pilates exercises with weighted pilates balls

Core Activation (8 Minutes)

Target and strengthen your core muscles with these focused moves.

Ball Roll-Ups

  • Lie on your back, legs extended, holding the weighted ball above your head.
  • Inhale as you curl up, bringing the ball forward.
  • Exhale as you stretch toward your feet, keeping control.
  • Reverse the motion slowly and repeat 8 times.

    Oblique Twists with Ball

    • Sit with knees bent, feet flat, holding the ball at chest level.
    • Lean back slightly, twisting your torso to the right to tap the ball beside your hip.
    • Return to the center and twist to the left.
    • Perform 10 twists per side to strengthen obliques.

    Strength and Stability (10 Minutes)

    Build strength and balance with these powerful, controlled exercises.

    Weighted Bridge

    • Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat, holding the balls on your hips.
    • Inhale to press through your feet, lifting your hips into a bridge.
    • Exhale to slowly lower back down.
    • Perform 10-12 reps to target glutes and hamstrings.

      Single-Leg Dead Bug with Ball

          • Start on your back with arms holding the ball overhead and legs in a table top position.
          • Lower your right leg and left arm simultaneously, keeping your core engaged.
          • Return to start and switch sides.
          • Perform 8-10 reps per side.
          Weighted Pilates balls deadbug exercise home and studio fitness

          Upper Body Focus (8 Minutes)

          Tone and strengthen your upper body with these exercises.

          Ball Chest Press

            • Lie on your back, knees bent, holding the ball at chest level.
            • Inhale as you press the ball up.
            • Exhale to slowly lower it back.

            Perform 10-12 reps for stronger shoulders and chest.

            Tricep Extension with Ball

              • Sit or stand, holding the ball overhead.
              • Inhale as you bend your elbows to lower the ball behind your head.
              • Exhale to straighten arms.
              • Perform 10-12 reps for sculpted triceps.

              Lower Body Focus (8 Minutes)

              Strengthen and tone your legs while improving stability.

              Ball Squat Hold

              • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding the ball at chest height.
              • Lower into a squat, keeping thighs parallel to the floor.
              • Hold for 15-30 seconds, engaging your core, then rise back up.
              • Repeat 3-5 times.

              Lateral Lunge with Ball

              • Hold the ball at chest level and step out into a side lunge.
              • Lower the ball toward your knee and push off to return to standing.
              • Perform 8-10 reps per side.

              Cool Down (5 Minutes)

              Relax and stretch to improve flexibility and aid recovery.

              Seated Forward Fold with Ball

              • Sit with your legs extended, holding the ball.
              • Lengthen your spine on an inhale, and fold forward on an exhale, reaching the ball toward your feet.
              • Hold for 20-30 seconds.

              Seated Spine Twist with Ball

              • Sit cross-legged or with legs extended, holding the ball at chest level.
              • Twist your torso to the right, exhaling, and return to center on an inhale.
              • Repeat 5-6 twists per side.

              Key Benefits of This Workout

              This workout is a game-changer for anyone looking to level up their fitness routine with minimal equipment. Here’s what you can expect:

              Improved Muscle Tone and Strength – Sculpt your body with added resistance from the weighted balls.

              Enhanced Core Stability – Build a stronger, more functional core.

              Increased Balance and Coordination – Improve everyday movements and athletic performance.

              Boosted Flexibility – Stretch dynamically for better joint mobility.

              Higher Calorie Burn – Elevate your metabolism and manage weight.

              Stress Relief – Embrace mindful movement to reduce tension and feel centred.

               

              Looking for more?

              For more Weighted Pilates Ball workouts, try this 10 minute upper body sculpt with Lauren Swadling of @barresculptpilates.

               

              Weighted Pilates ball

              Why Save This Routine?

              This Weighted Pilates Balls Workout Routine is not only effective but also enjoyable and easy to adapt to any fitness level. Please share it with friends and family to inspire them to prioritise fitness. By saving this guide, you'll always have a go-to workout for days when you want a full-body challenge with minimal equipment.

              Embrace the transformative benefits of this workout today—your body and mind will thank you!

              Retreat spa wellness mindfulness mental health and wellbeing

              How Movement Supports Mental Well-Being

              Written by Mia Barnes You don’t need a strict workout routine to feel the mental benefits of movement. Even small amounts of physical activity can...

              Written by Mia Barnes

              You don’t need a strict workout routine to feel the mental benefits of movement. Even small amounts of physical activity can help clear your mind, boost your mood, and reduce stress. Whether it’s a short walk, a yoga session, a workout class, or stretching while watching TV, movement plays a big role in how you feel mentally.

               

              lady on a yoga mat stretching her leg wearing ankle wrist weights

               

              At Amp Wellbeing, we believe that fitness and wellness should be accessible, enjoyable, and seamlessly integrated into daily life. Our mission is to inspire everyday movement, making it easy for you to prioritise your health—whenever and wherever it suits you. We understand that mental and physical wellbeing go hand in hand, which is why we design stylish, functional, and high-quality fitness equipment that fits effortlessly into your home and lifestyle.

              Movement is more than just exercise—it’s a powerful tool for self-care, balance, and overall wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, build strength, or simply feel better, we’re here to support you with the right equipment and guidance to make movement a natural part of your day. Here’s how it can positively impact your mental health.

               

              Reduces Stress

              Stress isn’t just in your head — it also shows up in your body. When you’re overwhelmed, your muscles tense up, your heart rate increases and your breathing becomes shallow. Movement helps release that tension by lowering cortisol levels and reducing stress. A walk or some light stretching can signal your body that it’s OK to relax. 

               

              Boosts Your Mood

              Exercise triggers endorphins, the chemicals in your brain that help relieve pain and improve your mood. This is why people often feel better after a workout, even when they weren’t in the mood to start. But you don’t have to push yourself through an intense gym session to reap the benefits. A bike ride, a casual swim or playing with your pet can all help boost your mood naturally. 

              If you’re not into traditional exercise, try dancing, hiking or anything that gets you moving in a fun way. Even if you’re short on time, just a few minutes of gentle movement can help shift your mindset.

               

              Clears the Mental Clutter

              lady on black yoga mat in meditation with pilates ball

              Some of the best thinking happens when you’re moving. Walking, running and other repetitive activities help your brain process thoughts and emotions more efficiently. That’s why taking a walk often helps when you feel stuck on a problem. 

              If you’re overwhelmed, try moving without distractions — no phone or music — just let your thoughts settle as you go. If you do need a little guidance, listening to a wellness podcast while walking can boost your mental well-being and give you new ways to manage stress. 


               

              Helps You Feel More Connected

              Physical activity doesn’t have to be a solo endeavour. Moving with others can help you feel more connected, which is just as important for mental well-being as the movement itself. Whether it’s joining a sports team, taking a yoga class or just going for a walk with a friend, being active with others can combat loneliness and boost your motivation. 

               

              Promotes Better Sleep

              If you struggle to fall asleep or wake up feeling groggy, moving more during the day can help. Regular physical activity regulates your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.

              Remember, you don’t need a hectic or intense workout — just moving more throughout the day can make a difference. Even stretching or doing light yoga before bed can help your body wind down. We have some beginner guides and workouts to help you get started in our Workout Centre.

               

              Increases Energy

              It sounds backward, but when you’re tired, movement can actually help you feel more energized. Physical activity increases blood flow and oxygen levels, which fights off sluggishness. If you hit an afternoon slump, a quick walk or even standing up and stretching for a few minutes can wake you up more effectively than another cup of coffee. 

              lady in tabletop position holding a pink pilates ball on her legs

               

              Small Moves, Big Impact

              The benefits of movement add up over time. You don’t have to overhaul your routine — just find small ways to move throughout the day (you can read more about creating a consistent,  easy to follow fitness plan here). If you feel sluggish, stand up and stretch. If your mind is racing, take a short walk. Even if you’re not in the mood to exercise, doing something simple can help shift your energy. Movement isn’t about doing the most but about doing what you can.

              Foam rollers stretch massage recovery amp wellbeing

              How to Optimise Your Recovery With These Stretching, Massage Ball, and Foam Roller Techniques

              Written by Mia Barnes Many fitness enthusiasts understand that push and pull during rest days. It’s imperative to give your body the rest it needs...

              Written by Mia Barnes

              Many fitness enthusiasts understand that push and pull during rest days. It’s imperative to give your body the rest it needs during a recovery routine. However, there’s always a lingering fear that you’re letting your muscles relax too much.

              Staying active will help your body return to its regularly scheduled programming, but only when done in moderation. It’s best to avoid pulling any muscles, which would delay returning to your usual routine.

              These are where low-impact exercises come in. Utilising equipment such as massage balls and foam rollers, along with simple motions like stretching, can help you maximize your recovery period and get back on your feet. 

              Foam rollers stretch and massage muscles with our amp wave roller

              Massage Ball for Mobility

              Some people experience myofascial pain, which occurs around the connective tissues of the body. It stems from various triggers, from general stiffness to incorrect form or excessive use. Massage balls can help your body heal by distributing a little pressure to affected areas.

              There are multiple ball types and sizes available on the market. Softer massage balls can alleviate your movement restrictions and release triggers. If you want more intense pressure to target smaller muscle groups, smaller variations like peanut balls can work.

              To begin using the massage ball, try to feel the pain points within your body. Position your chosen tool and apply as much pressure as you can handle. You can slowly roll the ball in circles to loosen up those internal knots. Feel free to repeat it throughout the day until necessary.

              cork massage ball

              Stretching for Flexibility

              Stretching is a great way to refresh your body. It’s easy to do from the moment you wake up and throughout the day, and it offers several benefits, like stimulating your blood circulation and prompting oxygen flow. There are specific stretches to target certain parts of the body, but here are a few examples you can try out:

              1. Side Stretch

                    Stand up straight

                    Raise an arm over your head

                    Lean to the opposite side while sliding your other hand down your leg

                    Hold for as many seconds as possible

                    Repeat for the other side

              2. Windmilling

                          Stand up with your feet wide apart

                    Raise an arm over your head

                    Let your other hand touch your toes on the opposite side

                    Switch sides while staying bent

              3. Child’s Pose

                          Get a mat and get into a kneeling position

                    Stretch out your arms forward and rest your hips on the feet

                    Slowly move your arms down to touch the ground

                    Bring your shoulders as low as possible and let your back lengthen

               

              Amp Yoga mat - natural leopard - Ampwellbeing

              Foam Rolling for Muscle Relief

              Foam rolling is also a staple for your workout recovery. It’s quite a simple procedure, as the foam roller works with your body rather than against it. The tool can also ease tension and alleviate pressure on the fascia. You could use it on almost any body part, but here are several suggestions on what muscle groups to work on.

               

               

              Foam rollers stretch and massage muscles with our amp wave roller

              1. Back

               

                    Lie down with the foam roller behind you

                    While bending your knees, lower your back onto the foam roller

                    Lift your glutes and roll back and forth from your upper to lower back

                    If comfortable, cross your arms above your head while rolling

               

              2. Shoulders

                    Lie on your side and place the foam roller under your shoulder

                    Keep your arm straight as you roll your shoulder against the tool

                    Flip to the other side and work on your other shoulder

              3. Hamstrings

                    Position the foam roller under your hamstring while sitting with straight legs

                    Cross one leg over the other

                    Roll the tool under one thigh, supporting yourself with your arms

                    Cross your legs the other way and work on the other side

               

              yoga and meditation pose yoga mat and pilates ball

              Enhance Your Recovery Process

              Muscle recovery is a key step in the workout process. It enables you to rest your body and helps you get right back into your exercise routine better than ever. Utilise the moves and products designed to assist you and create a more optimal resting period.