Hotel Workout Hack: Challenging Ice-Bucket Moves

Updated on 12/12/2014 at 3:01 PM

Traveling makes workouts tough to fit in, but that ice bucket hanging out in your hotel room can make your small-space sweat session more effective. We like to think of it as the traveler's take on the Ice Bucket Challenge! You can make a few classic exercises more effective by using this prop — and these moves all fit in your tiny hotel room too.

Staggered push-up: In a plank position, place the ice bucket under one hand. Bend your elbows as you lower your chest toward the floor, and straighten your elbows to complete a push-up. Having your hands at different levels challenges your entire body in new ways.
— Do five to 10 reps, then switch the ice bucket to the other hand for five to 10 more!
Ice-bucket squats: Fill the ice bucket to three-fourths full with water, and put the lid on (water is heavier than ice, but caution: you might get a little wet); hold the ice bucket at your chest with your elbows pointed to the floor. Bend your knees to squat down until your elbows touch your knees, and pause at the bottom for just a moment before returning to your starting position. This is just like a goblet squat without having to haul your kettlebell onto the plane.
— Do 15 to 20 reps.
Single-leg bucket bridge: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet about 12 to 18 inches from your butt. Put one foot on the bottom of an upside-down ice bucket and raise the other leg toward the ceiling — make sure the bucket will not slide out from under your foot. Press your pelvis into the air, coming into a one-legged bridge, giving your butt an extra squeeze at the top of the bridge, then slowly lower your pelvis back to the floor.
— Do 15 reps on each leg.