I Finally Found An At-Home Workout Routine That Doesn't Feel Like A Chore (And I'd Recommend It To Anyone)

My workout needed this revamp.

Hey, hey! My name is Jasmine and I like a good workout, but the gym hasn't been the ideal place for me to visit lately.

BuzzFeed / Via Jasmine Vaughn-Hall

Even in non-pandemic times, I hate the anxiety of wondering if someone is going to interrupt my workout at the gym to use the equipment I JUST started using. Still, I know that the way my taco intake is set up — I should probably stay active. 😂

Recently, one of my best friends recommended that I try a virtual trap Zumba class.

http://@trapzumba.hfc / Via instagram.com

The class is on Twitch and is hosted by Nicole, aka the hoodfairy, in Los Angeles. In addition to being a trap Zumba queen, she's also an "urban apothecary" who sells all sorts of amazing goodies, like oils, teas, and scrubs, on her website. (I have her elderberry syrup, which I put in my ginger tea most mornings.)

But let me back up. You might be thinking, Wait, what IS trap Zumba?? I'd describe it as a dance fitness class built around songs you'd shake some ass to when you're out with your friends.

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(Yeesh, when can we even do that again?)

I decided to give it a try, and I set up a makeshift workout station at home — making sure I gave myself enough room to move around.

BuzzFeed / Via Jasmine Vaughn-Hall

Don't judge my setup!

And you know what? I ended up LOVING it. I loved the music and the movements that varied in pace. I hadn't done a dance workout in awhile, but the instructor's vibe was very comforting and encouraging. I also felt super confident with my body's movements and no pressure to keep up with anyone, since it was virtual.

@trapzumbahfc / Via instagram.com

What I really liked about Nicole's class is that she truly just seemed like a homegirl walking me through the steps to work out. I also think the class is good for folks of all levels because there are ways to modify the movements in order to better suit what your body is capable of.

Let me tell ya — there were parts of the routine where I got so low to the ground that my corgi was pretty concerned. 👀

BuzzFeed / Jasmine Vaughn-Hall

If you think you might like to try it too, there are lots of free trap Zumba options options on YouTube. Here's a 10-minute trap Zumba class:

youtube.com

And here's a 10-minute trap aerobics class:

youtube.com

As for Nicole's classes, you can find her on Twitch on Thursdays at 8 p.m. PT, and once a month on Saturdays.

My biggest tip if you try trap Zumba? Make sure you have water nearby and prepare for a full body workout.

BuzzFeed / Jasmine Vaughn-Hall

One minute we'd be squatting to Tyga and then shaking some booty to Drake. Either way, I felt like I was really working out so many muscles but truly having fun while doing it.

PS: Nicole also incorporates a sexy song throughout the session, so I was definitely feelin' myself.

Going forward, I'm going to try to get in a class at least once a week. It's a good stress reliever and a neat way to stay active.

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Whether it's for 30 minutes or an hour, I truly benefit from reserving parts of my day for unplugging and moving around.

Have you discovered any creative ways to work out in these times? Tell me in the comments!