Get the most from an online workout

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With so many virtual-training programs and workout videos available online, you can pretty much skip the gym whenever you want without slacking on your fitness.

But online workouts can be easier said than done. Where do you put your laptop? The couch is right there. And what if your apartment is closet-sized? Don’t worry: Here's how to get your sweat on at home:

1. Transform your space from comfy to kickass

You associate home with comfort and relaxing, so you have to find a space in your home that doesn’t make you want to cuddle.

Maybe it’s the garage, the garden or even the kitchen. Pick a designated workout spot, and stick with it. You’ll start to associate that location with working out, which will make it easier to establish a routine.

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Try to avoid carpeted spaces as you’ll feel more like napping than running in place but use a yoga mat to soften up tile or hardwood floor. Move area rugs (or anything else you might trip over) out of the way.

Be wary of low ceilings if your workout involves any jumping. To see if you'll have enough room, lie down on the floor and make sure you have room to stretch out your arms and legs. Then, take one wide step out to each side. If you’re doing a cardio or dance-oriented video, you may want a little extra space beyond that.

2. Set up your laptop where you can actually see it

If you’re doing a workout in which you’ll be standing and lying on the floor, like yoga, position your laptop on a small step, a low table (like a coffee table), or even on a stack of books. If you put your laptop too close to eye-level (like on a countertop), you won’t be able to see a thing when you’re down on your mat.

For strength-based or cardio videos where you’ll be mostly on your feet, put your laptop on something halfway between eye-level and your waist (try a desk or the kitchen table).

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The most important part of your laptop set up is bumping the volume all the way up. For some moves, you might not be facing the screen head-on, so you need to be able to hear the instructor loud and clear.

3. Give yourself some prep time

When you go to the gym, the drive or walk there is your mental prep time. When you roll out of bed or stroll into the kitchen, your mind may need an extra kick to get into workout mode.

Play a few pump-up jams before starting the video to get motivated and focused, and make it a part of your routine.

4. Stay committed with a virtual sweat buddy

Working out with a friend can be a major motivation booster, but it’s tricky to do when you’re working out at home. Even if you don’t have the time or space to follow a workout video together, you can commit to doing a particular workout on the same day and hold each other accountable to make sure you get it done.

When you know your pal will be doing the same video as you and that they’ll probably want to compare notes afterward, your investment in your solo living-room workout skyrockets.