December is one of those months when workout routines are hard to keep.
You’re traveling. Staying with family. Sleeping on couches. Maybe you’re snowed in, it’s too dark or rainy to go outside, or you’re surrounded by people and don’t have access to a gym.
And the space you do have? It’s usually a tiny square of carpet between a bed and a dresser.
But here’s the good news:
You can get an incredible workout in a ridiculously small space.
You don’t need equipment, you don’t need a gym, and you don’t need ideal conditions. You just need your body and a little creativity.
I’ve actually always enjoyed workouts like this. It’s fun to bust excuses about having no space or equipment to work out. There really is so much you can do with your own bodyweight!
Here are five workouts built specifically for cramped, cozy, or awkward spaces — aka, the December fitness reality.
1. The 6×6 Strength Session (Your “I’m in a hotel room” workout)
All you need is enough room to lie down.
Circuit (repeat 3–5 times):
- 10–15 slow push-ups
- 12–15 split squats per leg
- 10–15 glute bridges
- 20-second hollow body hold
- 20-second superman hold
Why it works: This is pure calisthenics strength. No jumping, no noise, no equipment. Just muscle burn in the best way.
2. The Silent HIIT Workout (Perfect for not waking up your family)
HIIT that won’t shake the floor or wake up anyone sleeping nearby.
30 seconds on, 15 seconds off — 3–4 rounds:
- Slow squat to calf raise
- Plank shoulder taps
- Reverse lunges
- Walkout to plank
- Standing knee drives (fast but silent)
Why it works: Get your heart rate up while keeping the noise level down. Ideal for apartment floors and guest rooms.
3. The “I Only Have 5 Minutes” Workout
Because sometimes… five minutes is all you can manage. And that’s enough.
Do this straight through:
- 1 minute push-ups
- 1 minute air squats
- 1 minute plank
- 1 minute alternating reverse lunges
- 1 minute burpees or inchworm walkouts
Why it works: Five minutes reminds your body — and your brain — that you still show up for yourself, and gives you a little helpful rush of endorphins.
4. Tiny-Space Cardio Burner
If it’s freezing or pouring outside and you can’t run or jump, this is your indoor cardio fix.
30 seconds each, repeat 3 rounds:
- Fast high-knees in place
- Quick lateral steps (even 1–2 steps each way)
- Standing punches
- Squat jumps
- Burpees OR march in place with power
- V up in/outs
Why it works: You stay in one tiny spot while still getting sweaty and energized.
5. The 10-Minute EMOM Escape
Perfect for when you need a quick break from holiday chaos.
EMOM x 10 minutes (Every Minute On the Minute):
- Minute 1: 12 air squats
- Minute 2: 10 push-ups
- Minute 3: 20 mountain climbers
- Minute 4: 12 reverse lunges
- Minute 5: 30-second plank
Repeat the sequence once for a total of 10 minutes.
Why it works: It’s structured, efficient, and gives you a mental and physical reset fast.
You Can Get a Great Workout in a Tiny Space
Tiny-space training is real training. You’re not “phoning it in.” You’re adapting. And adaptability is one of the strongest fitness skills you can develop. This attitude has helped me stay consistent for nearly 15 years. It’s the difference between starting over again all the time and just doing something, even if it’s not the “perfect” workout.
So whether you’re snowed in, stuck inside, surrounded by family, or operating in a six-foot square of carpet, you can still build strength, fitness, and momentum this month.
December doesn’t have to derail your fitness. Just find a small space, pick a workout, and start. Your body won’t care where you trained — only that you did.
Need some more ideas for workouts you can do in a tiny space or with minimal equipment? Check out the 12 Minute Athlete app.
