Gym workouts can be quite intimidating to many, especially if you’re not a regular exerciser. The very sight of treadmills, cross trainers, weights and stationary bikes can be enough to send you straight home to the couch.

But there are some workout routines that don’t require you to hit the gym or expect you to be fit enough to run a marathon. These ‘activities’ can work wonders for your health. They will boost your metabolism and build your immunity. As such, they help you fight diseases and resist memory-related problems in the long run.

Here are some simple 5-minute exercises to give you some ‘healthy’ momentum:

  1. Walking

This is the simplest but most powerful form of exercise. A brisk 5 or 10-minute walk can help you in many ways. Firstly, it instantly stimulates blood circulation. Further, it controls cholesterol and keeps your blood pressure in check. Studies have shown that walking can also help you ward off memory related problems as you age. So, start with a short, brisk walk, and slowly increase your overall duration over time.

  1. Standard Squats

For this exercise, keep your back upright, and evenly distribute your weight between both your legs as you squat down. Alternatively, you can also place your back against a wall and render the same motion. A strong functional exercise, the squat routine helps target all the major muscle groups in your body including your hips, thighs and buttocks. This workout also forces your brain to actively engage.

  1. Jumping Jacks

This age-old routine is extremely favorable for functional training. It involves jumping from a standing position with your arms and legs pointing outwards. This quick, full-body exercise awakens all the neurotransmitters in your system, which may otherwise fall asleep due to a sedentary lifestyle.

  1. Hip Bridge

For a hip bridge, you start by lying on your back, with your hands by your side, and your knees perpendicular to the ground. Then, you engage your lower back as you pull your hips off the ground, and effectively create a hip bridge. This quick routine helps tone your glutes and strengthens your core, making it a great way to start your day.

  1. Plank

The ultimate core workout, the plank is an exercise you should do every day. The simple plank, which involves you resting on your toes and elbows with your back absolutely flat, does everything from engaging your core to enhancing your metabolism and strengthening your spine. Add in a few variations, and you can enjoy a full-body workout in less than 3 minutes!

Try to include time for these 5-minute exercises in your everyday routine and you’ll be on your way to leading a healthy and happy life. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to buy health insurance. A good health insurance policy can protect you while you exercise. The best part is, in today’s day and age; you can easily opt for health insurance online and secure your peace of mind.