Let's face it: some of us are morning people and some of us need a little jump-start to get going. Long work hours, adventuring, and other obligations can make us feel a little sluggish when that alarm buzzes. But before you press the snooze button, try these quick exercises to get your day started, your body activated, and your mind refreshed.

Side Plank

Put your forearm on the mat under your shoulder, perpendicular to body. Stack your upper leg directly on top of your lower leg, extending the knees and hips. Raise your body twoard the sky, straightening your waist. Hold position.

Squats

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider, if that's more comfortable. Push your seat downward, keeping your back and hips straight, as if you're sitting in an imaginary chair. Stand and repeat.

Bicycle Crunches

Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Put your hands behind your head, as if you're preparing for a standard crunch position. Then, raise your shoulder blades off the ground and bend your knees to 90°. Pedal your legs back and forth in the air, alternating your elbows to opposite knees, like riding a bicycle.

Donkey Kicks

Position yourself on all fours, with hands underneath your shoulders and knees under your hips. Keep one knee bent at 90° degrees and flex the foot as you slowly kick back your leg, parallel to the ground. Lower the knee back to the other knee and repeat. 

Add Bird-Dog Pose:

With this position, you can get more out of your workout by extending the arm opposite of your kicking leg and balancing on the mat. (Pictured above)

Warrior Pose

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and raise your arms above your head, parallel to your body. Step one foot forward slightly, moving the opposite foot backward to come into a lunge position. Press your torso downward and stretch your arms up to the sky. Repeat with opposite leg.

Lunges

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Step one foot forward slightly, moving the opposite foot backward. Push your hips forward to deepen the stretch in your thigh and hip muscles. Repeat with opposite leg.

Tabletop Crunches

Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place your arms to your side, parallel on the floor. Raise your feet to the same height as your knees. Crunch upward, moving your hands toward your ankles. Lower, then repeat.

And if you're looking for other easy exercises to do at home, check out our blog about staying active while you're stuck indoors. Now, get your body outta bed, get moving, grab your cup o' joe and rock the socks off of your day!