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Key Highlights
- Running in place is a simple yet effective exercise that requires no gym equipment or outdoor space. It can be done anywhere, even in small spaces like a bathroom.
- Keeping track of steps or using a timer helps build consistency and endurance. Starting with 100-300 counts and gradually increasing makes the routine more challenging over time.
- Complementing the workout with a one-minute plank and a few push-ups enhances strength, posture, and core stability, though these extras are optional.
I know what you’re thinking: “Another person trying to guilt-trip me into exercising.” But hold on, my friend. This isn’t about gym memberships, dumbbells, or expensive sneakers. This is about me, my two feet, and my bathroom tiles. Yes, my bathroom.
You see, I used to be one of those people who always had an excuse. “No time,” “No space,” “The weather is bad,” “My ancestors didn’t run, so why should I?”
But one day, as I stood staring at my reflection in the bathroom mirror, I realized something—if I could stand here and contemplate life for minutes on end, surely I could also move my legs a little. And that’s how my simple exercise routine began.
How I Run Without Moving
I have discovered the ultimate exercise hack. I run—without moving (running in place). Sounds like jazz, right? But it’s simple. Stand in one spot and run on the spot. That’s it. No need to dodge traffic, no need to deal with the sun frying my skin like plantain. Just me, my two legs, and my imaginary treadmill.
Where Do I Do It?
You’d think I’d pick my living room, but no—my bathroom is the place to be. Why? First, small space means fewer distractions. Second, the mirror lets me judge myself in real-time: “Oga, your form is off!” And third, in case of emergency sweat overload, I’m just one step away from the shower.
But honestly, you can do this anywhere—bedroom, balcony, kitchen (if you trust yourself not to trip over a pot of soup). Just find a space and make it yours.
The Count Game: How I Keep Track
I started with 200 counts. That’s 200 steps in place. It felt easy, so I went to 300 the next day, then 400. Now I’m somewhere around 1,000. If my ancestors had told me I’d be doing 1,000 counts in my bathroom, I would have laughed and continued eating puff-puff. But here we are.
The trick? Count out loud or use a timer. If you count out loud, you stay accountable. If you use a timer, aim for two minutes at first, then increase gradually. You can add background music to keep it fun.
Extra Spice: Planks and Push-Ups
Some people like plain rice; others like it with stew, plantain, and shaki. That’s how I treat my exercise. Running in place is the rice, but sometimes, I add some “stew”—a one-minute plank.
Planks are tough, but they do the Lord’s work. Core strength, better posture, reduced belly—what’s not to love? And then, because I like wahala, I throw in some push-ups. Just 10, sometimes 20. No pressure.
But hear me well—these extras are optional. If running in place is all you can do, my brother, my sister, you are still winning!
Why Running in Place Works
This thing truly works! I feel lighter, my legs stronger, my stamina better. If someone mistakenly asks me to dance, I go sabi shake body!
Out of curiosity, I still decided to check online to see if my mind was lying to me. Turns out, running in place has numerous advantages! But the one that struck me the most was a 2015 study from Journal of Physical Therapy Science—a highly respected database.
The study found that running in place while engaging the abdominal muscles helps to improve posture. As someone who spends too much time hunched over a laptop, that was all the motivation I needed! It’s free. It’s effective.
And most importantly, it removes all my excuses. No gym? No wahala. No time? Five minutes is all I need. Rain outside? Abeg, I’m in my bathroom.
Final Word: Don’t Knock It Till You Try It
If you’re reading this and still doubting, I understand. Running in place sounds unserious. But trust me, the best workouts are the ones you actually do. And this one? It’s simple, easy, and gets results.
So, tie that wrapper, wear those shorts, stand in place, and start running. The only thing stopping you is you!
