Working out and keeping fit is essential for our overall health and well-being. But between busy schedules and gym memberships that can put a dent in our wallets, staying consistent can be challenging. The good news is, you can set up a home gym without breaking the bank, and have the convenience of doing your workouts whenever you want. Here’s how:
Start with the basics
When setting up a home gym on a budget, prioritize the essentials and build from there. Here are some basic items you should start with:
- Dumbbells: Determine the optimal weight for your fitness level. You’ll need three pairs of weights: light, medium, and heavy. Light weights should allow you to fatigue at up to 25 reps, medium weights at 15 reps, and heavy weights at 10 or fewer reps. Besides being perfect for weight loss, they’ll help you reshape your body and improve muscle tone. Check out the American Council on Exercise for more guidance on choosing the right weights for you.
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Exercise mat: A good quality mat makes all the difference for comfortable floor exercises and stretching. While a carpeted area may work in a pinch, consider investing in an exercise mat made of durable foam or other materials that provide sufficient cushioning and support.
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Therapy ball: Use this versatile piece of equipment for core training, stretching, and even as an alternative to a desk chair for better posture. When choosing therapy balls, consider getting one that allows your hips to be slightly above your knees when you sit on it. Learn more about how to choose and use therapy balls on the Mayo Clinic website.
Upgrade and personalize
Once you have the basics covered, consider additional items to diversify your workouts and address specific fitness goals. Some budget-friendly suggestions include:
- Kettlebell: Adding a kettlebell to your workout routine can help improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. Choose one that weighs at least twice the heaviest dumbbell you have. For ideas on how to properly use a kettlebell, you can refer to this kettlebell workout guide on the Shape website.
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Foam roller: This simple yet powerful tool is great for relieving muscle soreness, improving flexibility, and increasing blood flow to muscles. You can find various types depending on your needs and budget, but the key is getting a sturdy one that will last. For guidance on which foam roller to buy and how to use it, check out this helpful guide from Prevention.
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Jump rope: A fun, low-cost way to fit cardio into your workout routine is using a jump rope. Perfect for burning calories, improving agility, and increasing endurance, a jump rope is an excellent addition to any home gym. To find the correct length, stand with your feet hip-distance apart and step on the center of the rope – you should be able to reach the handles comfortably. Read more about choosing and using jump ropes on the Verywell Fit website.
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Boxing gloves: Boxing is a high-intensity workout that combines cardio and strength training in a fun, challenging way. Adding equipment like a punching bag and boxing gloves to your home gym can open up a whole new range of workout options. Look for gloves that offer sufficient padding and wrist support, and find the right weight according to your needs and preferences. Learn more about selecting the best gloves for you on the Healthline website.
Final thoughts
Setting up a home gym is a smart, cost-effective way to stay consistent with your fitness routine. With these basic items, you’ll have the essentials needed for effective workouts customized to meet your personal goals. Keep in mind that adding a variety of equipment over time will not only keep your workouts fresh and interesting but will also encourage continued progress and overall fitness improvements.
