It’s January–the beginning of a bright new year. And like many of us, health and fitness are probably some of your New Year’s Resolutions. You’re fired up. You’re committed. You’ve promised yourself this year is going to be different. And it can be!
Whether your goal is to lose weight, be more active, reduce stress, or just create healthier habits, we’ve got a secret that can help. After all, this is the 21st century–right? Let’s not forget the power of tech!
Cue your Amazon Echo.
Millions of people use Amazon’s popular virtual assistant every day to help with tasks like checking weather reports, building grocery lists, and even planning their schedules. But Amazon Alexa is capable of much more! Here are nine free Alexa skills that turn this handy device into your personal health coach.
FITNESS
If fitting the gym into your schedule is out of the question and at-home workouts make you feel like you’re spinning in circles, these Alexa skills are just what you need! With a few simple voice commands, you’ll be powering through guided training sessions.
7-Minute Workout
Use voice command: “Alexa, start seven-minute workout.”
Seven minutes is less time than you’ll spend waiting in line for your morning cup of coffee. Anyone can squeeze in a quick sweat session with 7-Minute Workout. Each exercise can be done in the comfort of your own home, without any need for fancy equipment. It’s a great way to get your blood pumpin’ at the start of each day
Random Workout
Use voice command: “Alexa, random workout.”
Commercial break? It’s time to move! Jump off the couch and ask Alexa which exercises you can do. Random Workout will get your heart rate up and even includes motivational phrases to remind you that you’re killin’ it.
30 Day Pushup Challenge
Use voice command: “Alexa, open Pushup Challenge.”
Get down and give me twenty! Pushups are a powerful way to strengthen your entire upper body. With Pushup Challenge, the goal is to work up to 100 (consecutive) pushups each day. You’ll start small with baby steps, and build on the progress you make.
5-Minute Plank Workout
Use voice command: “Alexa, start five-minute plank.”
Want rock-hard abs? Well then, you’ve probably heard about the “plank.” It’s a great exercise for strengthening your core (and even your glutes and hamstrings)! With 5-Minute Plank Workout, Alexa will guide you through six sets of planks with short breaks in between.
Easy Yoga by Life Bot
Use voice command: “Alexa, open Easy Yoga.”
Perhaps planks and pushups aren’t really your thing. Maybe you’re looking for something a little more soothing. If so, Easy Yoga could be your cup of tea. You’ll be guided through a quick yoga routine that only takes 10-15 minutes.
NUTRITION
When healthy habits are easy, it’s more likely they’ll stick. That’s why reading labels and counting calories get a bad rap. They’re vital, but so time-consuming! Here’s an Alexa skill that can really simplify things.
Nutrition Label
Use voice command: “Alexa, search Nutrition Label for [food item].”
Wondering just how many calories are in the sandwich you’re eating, or if splurging on that cookie is worth it? Ask Alexa to share the nutrition facts of the food you’re eating. You can even get specific with questions like, “Alexa, how much protein is in bacon?”
MIND & SPIRIT
Diet and exercise aren’t the only things that lead to good health. Reducing stress and getting more sleep are also really important. Yet, they’re often overlooked. Rejuvenate your mind and spirit with these easy-to-use Alexa skills.
Guided Meditation
Use voice command: “Alexa, open Guided Meditation.”
Meditating is a helpful tool for relieving stress and anxiety. It can also improve your ability to focus and/or sleep so you feel more alert and rested. This Alexa skill includes over 60 guided meditation activities, as well as stress-reducing breathing exercises.
Breathe Therapy
Use voice command: “Alexa, open Breathe Therapy.”
The act of breathing is so basic. It’s something you don’t have to think about. Or is it? Hitting the “pause” button and slowing things down can help you relax and unwind. Use the Breathe Therapy Alexa skill whenever you need a little “me time.”
Free Sleep Sounds
Use voice command: “Alexa, ask Sleep Sounds for rain.”
Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of a crackling fireplace, rustling brook, or even a distant thunderstorm. This Alexa skill plays soft, ambient noise to help block out distractions interfering with your rest. And, there’s something for everyone. City noises, passing trains, ceiling fans and crickets are some of the more creative options.
See! Staying on track with your goals doesn’t have to be complicated, or cost tons of money. With tricks like these, even busy-bodies like you can nail it!
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