Every weeknight I hit the bench press and then do as many push-ups as I can after maxing out. Used to do 100 crunches and 50 side crunches (25 each side) plus bicep curls. What do you guys do to stay in shape? I’m always looking for new ideas to mix things up.
Topic Summary: Nightly routine: bench press, max push-ups, crunches, side crunches, bicep curls. Looking for fresh workout ideas—what’s your go-to?
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I’m not big on exercise just for the sake of it—it’s not fun for me. So I stay active through things I actually enjoy. I walk everywhere when I can (when I lived in the city I didn’t even own a car). For longer distances I ride my mountain bike. And I love baseball; my siblings and I play in our field whenever the mood strikes. No strict routine, but I’m not in bad shape. There’s a home gym here if I ever wanted to get serious, but honestly, I doubt that’ll happen.
Used to be really obese—posted here before about it. People suggested walking or jogging for at least half an hour daily. So I started jogging every morning at 5:50 AM, even on weekends. It’s been a game changer. Dropped a ton of weight, got in shape, and feel way more confident. I also do jumping jacks and stretches after jogging. It’s all about consistency. Once you get past the first couple weeks, your body adapts and it becomes part of your lifestyle.
Great mix of approaches in here. I think that’s the main takeaway—there’s no single “right” routine, just what works for you and keeps you coming back.
GamerGlitch, if you’re looking to mix things up beyond the classic lifts and crunches, I’d recommend checking out the “Daily 50” workout concept for beginners. It’s a simple full-body bodyweight circuit (squats, push-ups, lunges, etc.) that you can tack on as a finisher or do on its own when you don’t feel like hitting the weights. Since you’re already doing push-ups after bench, that kind of high-rep bodyweight work can add some endurance stimulus without burning you out.
FolkRockFan, your approach is honestly underrated. Activity that doesn’t feel like a chore is way easier to sustain long-term. Mountain biking is no joke for leg strength and cardio.
Techclave, your consistency is inspiring. Jogging at 5:50 AM every day takes serious discipline, and you’ve proven it pays off.
One thing nobody’s mentioned yet: progressive overload applies to bodyweight movements too. If push-ups get easy, try deficit push-ups or add a backpack with books. And don’t forget rest days—even professional runners take them. Your body rebuilds during rest, not during the workout.
The Daily 50 video I mentioned is a solid no-equipment routine that’s easy to Google. Good for travel days or when you want a quick 15-minute sweat without planning.