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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

8 Expert-Approved Exercise Hacks for People Who Have No Time

These easy tips simplify fitness.

Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 15, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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Dr. Emily MD activemindedphysician
​Eliminate Alcohol
Copyright activemindedphysician/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 15, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
Fitness & Workouts

Do you ever wonder what medical professionals do to stay in shape? Dr. Emily, MD, is a Board-certified Family Physician and social media influencer who shares advice with her followers about how to lose weight healthfully and sustainably. In a new social media post, she reveals how she stays fit and healthy. “Steal my 8 tips for a sustainable exercise routine,” she writes, revealing her top exercise hacks.

She Identifies One Rest Day Per Week

Her first hack? Choose a rest day ahead of time. “Identify the day of your week that tends to be your busiest and make that your designated rest day (mine is Monday),” she says.

Then, Choose a Short Workout Day

“The next busiest day of your week, commit to just a 10-20 minute workout. That way you won’t feel a huge burden to complete a long workout when you’re already feeling depleted - and the inevitable guilt when you then can’t follow through with unrealistic expectations,” she suggests.

Divide Workouts Into Shorter Chunks

“Divide your workouts into shorter chunks,” she continues. “Start with a 10-minute morning walk, then take another 10-minute walk at lunch and finish with a 10-minute walk in the evening. Half an hour done- you probably are already spending some of this time scrolling on your phone!”

Schedule Your Workouts

Schedule your workouts like anything else, she says. “Pencil your workouts into your calendar as if they’re as important as a work meeting - because they ARE,” she writes.

Do Workouts You Enjoy

Find workouts you love. “Find movement that you GENUINELY enjoy. If it sparks joy, you’re far more likely to stick to it,” she says.

Try an Exercise Class

Next, she recommends checking out an exercise class. “There really is something out there for everyone, I promise. I personally love F45 and Zumba but I have plenty of friends that love Orange Theory, Cross Fit, kickboxing classes and endless others. If it looks fun and in your budget, check it out! This can give you a built-in hour of exercise every week that you don’t have to think about or plan - you just show up,” she says. “When thinking of expenses, imagine what it will cost you if you didn’t invest in your health.”

Find a Workout Buddy

She also recommends workout buddies. “Exercise with a friend. Find a buddy and be each other’s accountability. Make it fun and social! Try to change the narrative of ‘let’s go get a drink’ to ‘let’s go for a walk.’”

Exercise at Home

Her last tip? Work out at home. “Having an option for exercise when you don’t have to worry about weather or driving somewhere can really wipe out those excuses. If you have space for a machine like a treadmill or bike, etc, that’s great but really all you need is an area the size of a yoga mat,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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Fitness & Workouts

8 Exercise Hacks for People Who Have No Time

Dr. Emily MD activemindedphysician
​Eliminate Alcohol
Copyright activemindedphysician/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 15, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you ever wonder what medical professionals do to stay in shape? Dr. Emily, MD, is a Board-certified Family Physician and social media influencer who shares advice with her followers about how to lose weight healthfully and sustainably. In a new social media post, she reveals how she stays fit and healthy. “Steal my 8 tips for a sustainable exercise routine,” she writes, revealing her top exercise hacks.

She Identifies One Rest Day Per Week

Her first hack? Choose a rest day ahead of time. “Identify the day of your week that tends to be your busiest and make that your designated rest day (mine is Monday),” she says.

Then, Choose a Short Workout Day

“The next busiest day of your week, commit to just a 10-20 minute workout. That way you won’t feel a huge burden to complete a long workout when you’re already feeling depleted - and the inevitable guilt when you then can’t follow through with unrealistic expectations,” she suggests.

Divide Workouts Into Shorter Chunks

“Divide your workouts into shorter chunks,” she continues. “Start with a 10-minute morning walk, then take another 10-minute walk at lunch and finish with a 10-minute walk in the evening. Half an hour done- you probably are already spending some of this time scrolling on your phone!”

Schedule Your Workouts

Schedule your workouts like anything else, she says. “Pencil your workouts into your calendar as if they’re as important as a work meeting - because they ARE,” she writes.

Do Workouts You Enjoy

Find workouts you love. “Find movement that you GENUINELY enjoy. If it sparks joy, you’re far more likely to stick to it,” she says.

Try an Exercise Class

Next, she recommends checking out an exercise class. “There really is something out there for everyone, I promise. I personally love F45 and Zumba but I have plenty of friends that love Orange Theory, Cross Fit, kickboxing classes and endless others. If it looks fun and in your budget, check it out! This can give you a built-in hour of exercise every week that you don’t have to think about or plan - you just show up,” she says. “When thinking of expenses, imagine what it will cost you if you didn’t invest in your health.”

Find a Workout Buddy

She also recommends workout buddies. “Exercise with a friend. Find a buddy and be each other’s accountability. Make it fun and social! Try to change the narrative of ‘let’s go get a drink’ to ‘let’s go for a walk.’”

Exercise at Home

Her last tip? Work out at home. “Having an option for exercise when you don’t have to worry about weather or driving somewhere can really wipe out those excuses. If you have space for a machine like a treadmill or bike, etc, that’s great but really all you need is an area the size of a yoga mat,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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Britany Williams Shares 10-Minute, Zero Equipment Beginner Workout

britany-williams-4
britanywilliams/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothAug 05, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Britany Williams is a personal trainer and influencer whose workouts are featured on the Sweat app. She regularly shares mini workouts via her Instagram account, many of which can be done without any equipment and in the comfort of your own home. She recently shared a quick but effective routine for beginners. “Need a no fuss QUICK workout? Try this 10 minute workout with no equipment needed from my new program The Daily 10 Challenge in the @sweat app 🎉” she captioned the series of clips, which demonstrate each of the exercises. Here is everything you need to know about the workout and all of her other diet and fitness tips.

No Equipment Needed

She recommends 5 exercises, doing each for 30 seconds, and completing 3 rounds of the set. “This workout targets your shoulders, core, quads and glutes - no equipment needed,” she explains.

  • Bird Dog
  • Supine March
  • Shoulder Cars
  • Glute Bridge
  • Lunge

Eat Foods That Make You Happy

Photo of excited beautiful young pretty woman sitting in cafe indoors have a breakfast eating saladShutterstock

In a TikTok clip, Britany encourages her followers to change the way they eat. “Often we leave off the foods that give us joy when building our plate. When in reality, what if we started there? What if when you were building your meal plan or your diet or your whatever it is, what if you started your meal plan with keeping in the foods that make you happy and then you had to build around that? What on my plate today supports my nutrition and supports my goals, but what also supports my joy?” she says.

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds With This Walking Routine

Work Your Upper Body When You Are Unmotivated to Work Out

,Working,Out,Gym,Weights,dumbbellsShutterstock

“If you're the kind of girly who's motivated most days to workout, but then there's that one to two days a week that you just struggle with, save your upper body workouts for those days,” she suggests. “Mentally, there is something easier about standing still and just moving weight around with your arms and upper body than there is about having to lower your entire torso down into a squat or a lunge and getting back up. Zero percent backed by science, but a hundred percent backed by my own personal experience.”

Run More with These 5 Tips

Tired,Runner,Rest,Running,recover,jogging,exerciseShutterstock

In a TikTok video, Britany unveiled “five realistic tips to make it a little easier” to go running. “Number one, sometimes run without your watch. Get used to how your body feels without always worrying about pace. Number two, a quick warmup is a game changer before longer runs, especially if you run in the morning. Number three, if you're a beginner, take breaks. Alternate walking and running for one minute intervals, increasing the length of the run interval every couple of weeks. Number four, get the right shoes. I get new shoes every 400 miles or so, and my knees thank me every time. And number five, realize every step forward, whether it be for five minutes or for an hour, is a step forward in your goals.”

Related: #1 Best Breakfast for Proteins According to Dietitian Who Lost 100 Pounds

How to Do a Push Up If You Struggle

Shutterstock

Britany admits that she has “struggled with pushups for years” and offers a tip on how to make them easier. “The idea of doing pushups on your toes was just never approachable for you. You need to elevate your hands on a chair. The higher your hands are relative to your feet, the easier it's going to be and it's going to be so helpful,” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: Try and do at least a 10-minute workout every day for a week and then ask yourself how you feel. You will likely be motivated to do longer workouts the next week. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Fitness & Workouts

15 Lazy-Girl Ways to Exercise at Home

Tessa_Benz_justmetessab3
justmetessab/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 11, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Recently, “lazy girl” workouts have been all the rage on social media. What is a lazy workout anyway? Tessa Benz, a social media influencer who specializes in lazy girl workouts, explains that “lazy girl” is “a person who listens to their body, unwilling to sacrifice their well-being for the perception of strength but instead chooses grace and love to honor their journey while simultaneously finding small yet substantial ways to grow in connection with oneself,” in one of her viral TikTok clips. It can also mean “a person who rejects exercise as a form of punishment and embraces movement as an opportunity to journey towards new levels of strength, discipline, perseverance, bravery, power, resilience, respect,” or “a person unwilling to work or use energy unnecessarily and positions themselves on their side rather than upright.” Here are 15 “lazy-friendly” ways you can exercise at home, according to experts and influencers.

Do This Lying Down Workout with Dumbbells

@justmetessab

Sometimes we feel lazy and unmotivated, and that’s okay. Exercise can be a good tool to help you feel connected and boost your energy. This is a perfect beginner workout routines for women you can do at home with a couple dumbbells. Girls, working out doesn’t have to be so complicated. Try this workout routine, listen to your body and if you like it, go to my bio, subscribe to my email list and keep an eye out for my Lazy Girl Workout calendar 😉 #lazygirlworkouts #lazygirl #lazygirlworkoutchallenge #lazygirlworkouttip #beginnerworkoutforwomen #beginnerworkoutroutine #beginnerworkoutprogram

Don’t feel like standing up? Benz suggests doing a light workout on the ground with a pair of dumbbells. Lying down, she demonstrates a few moves, including pullovers, bridge walks, butterfly crunches, chest presses, toe taps, and clamshells. She recommends 10 to 20 reps and 1 to 3 rounds.

Or, Stay in Bed and Do This Ab Workout

@nextlvlbody

7-min in Bed Ab Workout for Lazy Girls #workoutmotivation #fitnessmotivation #fittok #fyp

Don’t feel like getting out of bed? Using your mattress to do ab work will add a little resistance and keep you super comfy. This 7-minute in-bed ab workout includes a variety of exercises, like

Do This Glute Workout on the Floor

@justmetessab

Save this one to FIRE up the Glutes without leaving your side 👌🏽😉 I love incorporating this booty combo on my leg days but this is a perfect little something to do on a lazy day/rest day for that added toning and instant booty lift 🔥 #workoutideasforbeginners #workoutideasforwomen #workoutsformoms #workoutfromhome #workoutsforbusywomen #workoutforbusywomen #workoutideas #workoutsforbusymoms #lazygirlworkout #lazygirls #lazyday #bootyworkou

Benz shared a lazy but effective on-the-floor workout to “FIRE up the Glutes without leaving your side,” she writes in the TikTok post. “I love incorporating this booty combo on my leg days but this is a perfect little something to do on a lazy day/rest day for that added toning and instant booty lift.”

Do This Couch Workout While Watching TV

Sara Haley, American Council on Exercise (ACE) certified trainer and instructor, tells Body Network that her “Tabata inspired” couch workouts can be done while watching TV. “It’s a great fat-burning workout using just your body weight and your couch!” she adds in an Instagram post, demonstrating the moves.

Power Up Your Nintendo

CLEETHORPES, UK – MARCH 1, 2017: The original Nintendo Wii consoleShutterstock

Did you know that you can play video games and burn calories? Wii Fit video games are the perfect way to get a light workout in, says Haley. From dancing and martial arts to walking workouts, Nintendo offers a variety of choices.

RELATED: I Lost 10 Pounds in 4 Weeks on the Carnivore Diet

Do Some Cozy Cardio

Sporty man training on walking treadmill and watching TV at homeShutterstock

“Cozy cardio” is another fitness trend worth checking out. “Walk/jog in place or use a walking pad whenever you watch TV,” suggests Haley.

Here’s a Bed Workout for When You Wake Up or Right Before Slumber

Haley is all about her bed workout. “Have a quick workout you do regularly when you get up or go to bed,” she says. One of the moves? Use the side of your bed to do push-ups.

Do Some Lazy Girl Pilates

@natalieroseuk

Lazy girl pilates is my fav for the weekend. Hit + for workouts & tips #pilatesring #lazygirlworkout #workouttips #foryou

“Lazy girl pilates is my fav for the weekend,” exclaims Natalie Roseuk in her viral video. “This magic circle Pilates variation will sculpt your inner thighs, strengthen your core & define your shoulders all in one.

Invest in a Mini Treadmill

@emmafituk_

cosy cardio >>>> this is your sign to romanticise movement🥰☁️🧘🏼‍♀️💗🧸 Put your favourite gym outfit/ pyjamas/ cosy clothes on, light some candles, make yourself a hot drink, put a feel good film on and do some movement in the comfort of your own home!! 🫶🏼 Cozy cardio is one example of a very much needed mindset shift: from thinking exercise always has to be sweating your ass off in the gym, getting your heart rate up in a busy gym with harsh lighting and loud music 👉🏼 to honouring that exercise can be whatever feels good to you! Exercise isn’t only good for building muscle/ burning calories it’s also such a good stress relief and endorphin boost!! It’s a form of self-care🥰 #hotgirlwalks are one of the bestttttt ways to increase your energy expenditure (walking is SO underrated for fat loss) but even if you don’t have a walking pad at home- you can create a similar vibe doing some yoga, Pilates, watching a YouTube workout / dance workout !! I’ve definitely been prioritising wellness over intensity and listening to my body more. Sometimes I just don’t fancy doing a heavy weight sesh but setting up a vibe like this 👆🏼 (watching the grinch, christmas tree up, candles, a hot drink and little Bella getting involved 🐱😭🫶🏼) means I’m still getting in my steps, I’m staying active but it’s also a fun cute and cosy activity which makes me feel good!!!! let me know if you’re getting in with the cosy cardio club 🤝🏼🧸💅🏼 #cosy #cosycardio #cardio #fyp #trend #homeworkout #cosyvibes #romanticiseyourlife #cosyhome #christmas #walkingpad #treadmill #cardioworkout #homeworkouts #selflove #selflovejourney #exerciseismedicine #fitnessmotivation #motivation #fitnessgirl #hometraining #onlinecoach #trainingtips #foryou #easyworkout

Lots of “cozy cardio” devotees swear by mini, portable treadmills. Move them around your house and get your steps in while watching television.

Do Family Fitness Challenges

Want to burn calories while spending quality time with the family? Haley recommends family fitness challenges. On her Instagram account, she offers five fun fitness challenges to do with your kids:

1️⃣ Who can hold a wall squat the longest

2️⃣ Who can jump rope for 30 seconds without missing

3️⃣ Who can do a handstand (then add straddling your legs, etc.)

4️⃣ Who can get off the floor without using their hands

5️⃣ Dance contest - who can make Mom laugh the most

RELATED: What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Eating Snacks

Invest in an Under-the-Desk Elliptical

Mini Stepper Elliptical home gym equipment. Ideal for weight loss and improving overall fitness.Shutterstock

No more using work as an excuse to skip your workout. Buy an under-desk elliptical, like the Cubii Move, a $199 portable machine that you can put under your desk.

Do Some Stair Sprints

Do you have stairs in your house? Get your heartbeat up and burn calories fast. “Run up the stairs or do a circuit between chores,” Halsey suggests.

Do This Desk Workout

@fitpie365

Reply to @koblizek_je_best PART2️⃣ 🤫 shhh…What’s next ⁉️🔽 #SilentWorkout #TahukahAnda #TiktokGuru #fitpie @chrisyiwen #FitnessGuru #officeWorkout #LazyWorkout #officeworkouts #fitTok #deskexercise #LegWorkout

Sitting at your desk all day? You can do these exercises while working in your home office. It includes leg lifts.

Game on the Mini Treadmill

@presettable

The Gaming + Cardio combo has my heart!🥹💚😍 - #cozycardio #treadmillgaming #fortnite #treadmillworkout #gamingcardio #gamergirl #exercise #gamingfitness #fortnitestreamer

Are you a gamer? Presh, a gamer, demonstrates how you can make the time go by so much faster by gaming while you get your steps in.

Jump, Jump

@open_everyday

#cozycardio #cozycardioclub

Jumping on a mini trampoline is a great workout. And you can do it while watching television. Adding a spring to your step can help you get into shape faster. A NASA study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology claims that rebounding exercise is 68 percent more efficient than jogging. As far as calories burned, a study by the American Council on Exercise found that mini trampoline workouts effectively burn an average of 12.4 calories per minute for men and 9.4 calories per minute for women. According to a 2016 in the Journal of Sport and Health Science trampoline jumping also helps with bone density and strength.

Fitness & Workouts

Boost Your Ozempic Results With This Quick 10-Minute Workout

Happy,Athletic,Couple,Flexing,Muscles,Working,Out,gym,exercise,health,fitness
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 20, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Just because you are taking Ozempic and losing weight fast doesn’t mean you have an excuse to skip the gym – especially because adding a little exercise can help maximize your results. “Ozempic and other weight loss medications effectively result in decreased appetite and slowing down digestion. As a natural result of this, weight loss will occur,” explains David Chesworth, Program Director and Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) at Hilton Head Health. He explains that weight is lost by putting your body into a caloric deficit, which is where the “eat less – move more” saying comes from. “And while you might burn 300 to 500 calories during an intense workout, it is super easy to find yourself consuming a 300 to 500 calorie, unhealthy snack. As the old saying goes, ‘You can’t outrun a poor diet.’” he adds. One of the great things about Ozempic is that it helps you feel satisfied while eating less. Read on to learn more and discover a 10-minute workout to help maximize the results of Ozempic.

1. ”Exercise Is Still a Key Ingredient”

,Running,Treadmill,Health,gym,exercise,workout,fitness.Shutterstock

While Ozempic and other weight loss medications can directly impact weight loss, “exercise is still a key ingredient to maximally achieving your health and weight management goals,” says Chesworth. “Exercise acts as a nice supplement, or ‘boost,’ to any diet and weight loss strategy. Exercise leads to a healthier heart, stronger bones, muscles, and joints, and improved levels of energy and mood.”

“Any activity that you enjoy and can see yourself doing long term” is a good option, says Chesworth, as “consistency is more powerful than intensity.” He suggests finding activities that you enjoy, “or at least, don’t totally hate and do those activities.”

Related: 10 Foods You Should Eat Every Day For Your Best Body

2. Implement a Balance of Exercises

Training,Cycling,Machines,cardio,bike,gym,fitness,exercise,workoutShutterstock

However, he does recommend a little structure and guidance when it comes to creating a workout to go along with Ozempic. “Be sure to implement a balance of cardio, strength, and flexibility training,” he says. He recommends three to five days a week of moderate to vigorous heart rate-related exercise or five to seven days a week of light to moderate heart rate-related exercise.

3. Challenge Your Muscles

Cooldown,Stretching,Legs,,Run,running,joggingShutterstock

For strength training, he suggests doing two to four days a week of challenging all the major muscle groups – legs, back, chest, arms, core, and shoulders. “You could break this up into upper body days and lower body days,” he says. Or, you can do two to four full body training days. As for flexibility, aim to get three to seven days per week of stretching the full body. Stretching could also be implemented for five to 10 minutes at the end of your strength and cardio workouts. “If you are just getting started and coming from doing nothing, don’t overwhelm yourself by doing too much,” Chesworth says. “Start simple and start realistic. There is no shame in starting with one to three days a week of any type of exercise and using the above guidelines as a compass to move towards as your habits get better and stronger.”

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Hire a Trainer

,Fitness,Sporty,Female,Exercising,Pulldown,Personal,Trainer,exercise,gym,workoutShutterstock

If you have no idea where to begin, hiring a personal trainer is always a great option to find activities personalized to you, he adds. “Here at Hilton Head Health, we help people every week in that same situation who don’t know where to begin with their fitness and nutrition lifestyle goals. There are also virtual resources that exist out there, such as our H3 at Home coaching program with follow-along workout videos with modifiable exercises and virtual health coaches to keep you accountable to your goals.”

Related: I Lost 20 Pounds in 4 Months With These 4 Effortless Changes

5. 20-Minute Workout

Muscular,Athletic,Fit,Man,squats,fitness,workout,exerciseShutterstock

Cheworth offers a sample workout – that will only take you 10 to 20 minutes – to help maximize the results of Ozempic.

  • Walk 100 yards
  • 20 squats
  • Walk 100 yards
  • 20 side steps
  • Walk 100 yards
  • 20 calf raises
  • Walk 100 yards
  • 0:30 hamstring stretch
  • 0:30 calf stretch
  • 0:30 chest stretch
  • 0:30 back stretch

💪🔥Body Booster: Taking Ozempic or another weight loss drug will help you lose weight. But doing a combination of weight training, cardio, and stretching, for less than 20 minutes per day, can help you maximize your weight loss results.

Fitness & Workouts

Cara Metz's 15-Minute Workout for Women 40+

Cara_Metz1
carametz_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 06, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

If you don’t have an hour to devote to exercise every day, don’t stress. According to Cara Metz, a fitness trainer with over 20 years of experience and nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram, all you need is a quarter of that time. Metz specializes in 15-minute workouts, recently sharing one for her over 40 followers. “This 15-minute workout is perfect for women over 40! Why? Because you are super busy & a longer workout is not always possible,” she writes in the caption. Here is everything you need to know about the workout – including why 15 minutes is enough time.

Here Is Why Women Over 40 Need to Build Muscle

Muscular Caucasian forty year old woman doing exercises with dumbbells in the gym.Shutterstock

First Cara explains why women over 40 need to build muscle. She says that “your muscle mass is starting to diminish so you need to work at keeping your muscle & hopefully building more lean muscle!”

“15-minute workouts have been a game changer for me and the ladies who are part of the Cara Fitness family. Do you feel you need to workout for longer? If yes. Why?” she asks.

Cara gives the “workout breakdown” and explains that you should do each exercise for 50 seconds each with 10 seconds of rest in between. Then, “repeat the sequence 3 times for a 15-minute workout,” she says.

Related: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Here Are the Exercises

1️⃣ Cross bicep curl

2️⃣ Tricep kickbacks & hold

3️⃣ Upright row & clean

4️⃣ Back to front & front drive

5️⃣ Stepping shoulder press

Get More Steps In with This 15-Minute Workout

In another post, she shares a 15-minute workout to get 1,500 steps in. “How many daily steps do you do? Do you struggle to get your steps in each day! Try this….Stick some music on, set a timer for 1 minute a move and let’s go!” she writes. Repeat twice.

  1. March
  2. Wide march
  3. In & out March
  4. Two side steps
  5. Rock step
  6. Box step
  7. Walk forward & back
  8. Let loose & boogie

RELATED: How to Debloat Your Belly Fast, According to an MD

This Is Why You Only Need 15 Minutes to Work Out

Mature woman, break and drinking with water, earphones or music on machine for workout or exercise at gym. Female person with smile for rest, mineral beverage or thirst after training at health clubShutterstock

“Why do you only workout for 15 minutes? Surely that is not enough? What else do you do? These are the questions I get all the time. The other question I get is how do I stay motivated?” she wrote in another post. “So motivation & just 15 minutes go hand in hand. Just 15 minutes allows me to stay consistent as the workout is finished before you know it! Motivation is fleeting, some days you are, some days you are not! Knowing that your workout is only 15 minutes means it’s so much easier to just get the job done! Consistency is the key to getting results. Dipping in and out of exercise and great nutrition is what causes yo-yo weight loss and dieting. Doing 15 minutes consistently and eating great food consistently is what gets results! Simple! This is what works for me and 1,000’s of women who workout with me each day!”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try to do a short but intense 15-minute workout every day for a week.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Simple Meals She Still Eats After Losing 30 Pounds

Liezl Jayne Strydom
4 Meals I Ate to Lose 30 Pounds in 12 Weeks
Copyright Liezl Jayne/Facebook
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 24, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

There's nothing quite like the moment when you've reached your weight loss goal and realize the real work is just beginning. YouTube sensationLiezl Jayne Strydom is familiar with this journey, having successfully lost 30 pounds in just 12 weeks and maintained her results long-term. "It's not about being perfect," she states repeatedly. Her philosophy centers on consistency rather than perfection, focusing on nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals that keep her satisfied throughout the day.

Getting Out of the Winter Rut

"To get out of my rut, get out of the winter rut, I like to do just a few simple things," Liezl explains in her recent post. "I like to change up my routine so things feel fresh, change up my meals and my workouts a bit so that I can just feel like I'm working towards some new goals." This refreshed mindset helped her stay motivated during her weight loss journey and continues to serve her well during maintenance.

Protein-Packed Breakfast Smoothie

"I've been making this breakfast every single day this week. This week, it's my favorite. It's just really simple," says Liezl. Her recipe combines one cup of frozen mango, half a cup of frozen raspberries, and half a cup of frozen strawberries. She adds about three-quarters to one cup of coconut yogurt, one small scoop of vanilla protein powder, and water to blend. "It's like a giant strawberry milkshake for breakfast," she explains.

RELATED:Coach Lost 90 Pounds by Getting Brutally Honest with Herself About These 10 Things

Morning Movement Matters

"I just finished a workout. So I'm a little bit sweaty, a little bit hot, ready for my breakfast," Liezl shares. For her, exercise isn't about punishment but rather a consistent part of her routine that complements her nutrition. This balanced approach helped her lose weight in a sustainable way and now helps her maintain her results.

Nutrient-Dense Lunch Bowl

"It's a perfect lunch for me—quick, very healthy, and full of protein," Liezl explains about her midday meal. She starts with arugula, adds roasted sweet potatoes, and two seven-minute boiled eggs. "I always like to add something really filling to my salads like sweet potato or rice or quinoa," she notes. A drizzle of olive oil and coconut aminos brings everything together, with sunflower and pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Prioritizing Meal Prep

"I've got these roasted sweet potatoes. I cooked them yesterday," Liezl explains. This simple habit of having healthy options ready makes maintaining her weight loss easier. "All the work of these fruits, or the melons, is just cutting it up. But if you've got it cut up, then you can just have it ready to go in the fridge," she adds when discussing her afternoon snack.

RELATED:I Lost 100 Pounds in 18 Months With Walking and 3 Simple Food Changes

Refreshing Afternoon Treat

Healthy,Breakfast,Or,Morning,With,Chia,Seeds,Vanilla,Pudding,Raspberry​Overnight Chia Seed BreakfastShutterstock

"I prepped some chia pudding the other day. And I also prepped this little fruit salad," Liezl shares. Her afternoon pick-me-up features chia pudding topped with watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, and pecans. "That makes a very good after lunch snack," she notes, showing how simple combinations can satisfy sweet cravings naturally.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

Tea time. Beautiful blonde woman holding ceramic cup of tea or coffee enjoy closeup. Looking at window and drink tea. Good morning with tea. Selective focus. Pretty young girl relaxing. Happy concept., green tean, coffee​Green TeaShutterstock

"I love coconut yogurt, but any kind of plain yogurt will actually work," Liezl explains. For her afternoon coffee, she shares, "What I've really been liking in my coffee lately is I use just coconut milk in a can, light coconut milk. It's like so creamy, a little bit sweet, just naturally sweet. It's dairy-free, obviously."

Quick 10-Minute Dinner

"This is something that I make when I don't have a lot of time or when I just want something super quick," says Liezl. "This is a five to 10 minute dinner. So fast." She steams green beans while cooking ramen noodles, then adds pre-cooked chicken. "After I drain the noodles, I actually just put them right back in the pot with the stove turned down to low. And I just throw all the chicken pieces in there," she explains, adding oil and coconut aminos before covering to heat everything through.

Mindful Evening Indulgence

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"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. Her evening ritual includes ginger tea paired with a small piece of dark chocolate. "And it's chocolate time. A little bit of chocolate," she says simply. "I'm going to go enjoy my chocolate and my tea and just relax a little bit this evening."

RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

The Protein Priority

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

"I am trying to eat quite a lot of protein at the moment. I try to get roughly a hundred grams of protein a day," Liezl notes. "I'm not like counting it. I just kind of have learned what kind of things have protein in them. So just having the eggs for lunch, having some protein powder in my smoothie for breakfast, having the chicken in my dinner. All those proteins accumulate."

Understanding Your Calorie Needs

"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. "But I thought some of you guys might want to know how many calories that I'm eating. So it says that I ate 2,227 calories today and 95 grams of protein. That's pretty good."

Flexible Framework, Not Rigid Rules

"It's not about being perfect. It is not about being perfect," Liezl emphasizes twice. "I have found that when I am putting in a little bit of effort, taking care of myself, I just feel so much better," she says. "When I don't [take care of myself], it really affects my confidence. And then I'm like thinking, oh, I need to change all these things about myself."

RELATED:She Walked in a Weighted Vest For 30 Days & Built Strength Without Going to the Gym

Summer-Ready Confidence

"Getting summer ready really just means feeling healthy, strong, confident in my skin," says Liezl. "You know, comfortable showing a little bit more skin after winter. In winter I get like, feel like a bit scruffy after winter, like I've just been bundled up so much." Her approach focuses on making small changes that yield big results in both physical appearance and mental well-being.

Finding Inspiration, Not Perfection

"I hope that you enjoyed this video. I hope that it just gives you a bit of motivation, a bit of inspiration, maybe a recipe or two to try," Liezl says. By sharing her realistic day of eating, she demonstrates that sustainable weight management doesn't require extreme restriction. As she puts it, it's about "just getting out of the rut a bit, just changing up a few things, doing some exercise, eating some healthy meals." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

6 High-Protein, Almost Zero-Calorie Foods That Helped Me Drop Body Fat Fast

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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 24, 2025
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Freelance Writer/Editor
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✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you trying to lose weight, but not sure what to eat? You probably know that to burn body fat, you need to follow a high-protein, low-calorie diet. Some foods are better than others when it comes to meeting these criteria. Regina Trakhtman is an influencer and weight loss coach who dropped 7% body fat after kids at 39 and helps other women do the same. In a new social media post, she shares some of the foods she eats to lose weight quickly. “When I need more protein without extra calories, these are 6 things I eat,” she writes. “Here are my high protein, low calorie go-to’s!”

Egg Whites

Woman hands breaking an egg to separate egg white and yolks and egg shells at the background​ A Day of Measured EatingShutterstock

The first food she recommends? Egg whites. “Pure protein, zero fat, low calorie. Add them to oats, make an omelet, or mix into shakes for a protein boost!” she says.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Non-Fat Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt on wooden background, Health food from yogurt concept​2. Greek YogurtShutterstock

Not all yogurt is healthy. Many have added sugars. However, non-fat Greek yogurt should be a staple in any fat loss diet. “15-20g of protein per cup with barely any fat! Perfect as a snack, in smoothies, or even as a creamy sauce base. It’s the most versatile ingredient!” she says.

Protein Powder

Whey,Protein,powder,Scoop.,Sports,Nutrition.​17. Soy Protein PowderShutterstock

Another item to add to your menu if you are trying to lose weight? Protein powder. “A quick and easy way to boost protein without extra fat or carbs. Mix it with water, almond milk, or even coffee!” she says.

Canned Tuna (in Water)

Canned tuna on wood background​7. Canned FishShutterstock

She also eats canned tuna, in water, often. “Lean, high-protein, and low-calorie. Great in salads, wraps, or straight from the can with mustard. There’s one at Trader Joe’s that I’ve been obsessed with!” she says.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese or fresh milk curd as background close up. Homemade cottage cheese texture.Shutterstock

Most health experts maintain that low-fat cottage cheese should be an essential in your fat loss diet. “Packed with casein protein (slow-digesting) to keep you full longer without excess calories,” she writes.

Deli Turkey or Chicken (Low-Sodium)

A view looking into a package of processed turkey deli meat slices.​Processed Meats: The Cancer ConnectionShutterstock

Not all deli meat is healthy but she does recommend turkey or chicken. “Easy grab-and-go protein with barely any fat. Roll it up with mustard or eat it straight for a snack! My fav? Roll it in a crispy piece of lettuce 🥬 or in an @egglifefoods everything wrap,” she says.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

BONUS: Sugar-free Jello with Greek Yogurt + Protein Powder

Hayward, CA - July 24, 2014: Jello brand gelatin in Black Cherry flavor, sugar free1. Sugar-free Jello: 11 caloriesShutterstock

Sugar-free Jello with Greek yogurt + protein powder is the perfect high-protein dessert hack. “You’ll thank me later,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Nutrition & Diet

Eat This for Breakfast to Burn More Fat

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By Leah SuzanneApr 24, 2025
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✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Are you trying to lose weight, but aren’t sure what to eat? Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it fuels your body for fat loss and muscle growth. Body Network spoke with Elaine Morrison, a pilates instructor and nutritional therapy practitioner who helps women look their best from the inside out, and asked her: What do you eat for breakfast when you want to lose weight? Her answer may surprise you.

Make Sure Your Breakfast Is Balanced

Avocado toast with poached egg on a wooden board. Breakfast concept.​Don’t Skip BreakfastShutterstock

“Eating a satiating breakfast that includes enough protein, healthy fat, and fiber will help you maintain steady energy (balanced blood sugar) and make better food choices throughout the day,” says Morrison. “It will help you to feel full and cut down on unnecessary snacking. You'll also have better energy and less brain fog. Balancing blood sugar is key to supporting fat loss.”

Aim for 30 Grams of Protein

Unrecognizable man preparing fried eggs for breakfast. Close up.Shutterstock

Morrison recommends starting by choosing protein and aiming for 30 grams of protein.

Some examples:

  • 2 eggs (1 egg = 6 grams of protein) + 2 chicken sausage
  • 2 eggs + 1/2 cup of cottage cheese (scramble the cottage cheese into the eggs for a creamy texture)
  • 1 serving of protein powder + 2/3 cup of greek yogurt.

Here’s What to Do When Traveling

NEW YORK CITY - MAY 2015: Starbucks store. Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse company in the world.​StarbucksShutterstock

“When traveling, most airports have Starbucks,” Morrison says. “I tell clients to purchase two servings of the egg white bites (a total of 4), which will give them 24 grams of protein. Purchase an apple if they have it, or bring one with you, and you will have a well-balanced meal.”

Then, Choose a Healthy Fat

Cottage cheese and mint in a wooden bowl on an old rustic table, selective focus.Shutterstock

Next, make sure you have a healthy fat. “Eggs contain 5 grams of fat/egg, so you'll get enough from eating eggs,” she says. “Choose cottage cheese or Greek yogurt that are low to full fat and that will give you your healthy fat. If you're using protein powder and Greek yogurt to make a smoothie, depending on how much fat is in the yogurt, you can also add a tablespoon of nut butter.”

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

Wooden box filled fresh vegetables​She Eats Balanced Blood Sugar Meals and Eats Veggies FirstShutterstock

Next, choose non-starchy vegetables or fruit to add fiber to your meal. “Fiber helps keep you feeling full and supports healthy blood sugar levels,” she says.

Non-starchy vegetables: Saute, roast, or steam broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, spinach, carrots, asparagus.

Fruit with fiber: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, apples, pears. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

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