The Benefits of a Home Gym
If you want to get in shape or just maintain your fitness routine, a home gym could be the right option for you. In the long run, having a home gym is cheaper than a gym membership. Also, if your gym is just in the next room, you will be more motivated to work out. You don’t have to talk yourself into getting dressed and driving to the gym. If you have never worked out at home or you are used to going to a gym, start with some inexpensive pieces of equipment and see how you do first.
Consider the Factors
There are several factors to consider when you decide to invest in a home gym. First, take into account how much space you have.
Obviously, if you have a large room or space, you have more options and can have multiple pieces of exercise equipment and different work out stations. On the other hand, if your space is small, you might have to decide what your main fitness goal is (cardio, strength training, flexibility) and purchase a few keys pieces of equipment. An ideal workout space should have a door so you can shut out noise or other activities going on in your house. Another good idea is to get a full length mirror to make sure you are using proper form. No matter your budget, there are several options for finding a mirror for your home gym.
Get Equipped
A home gym doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. It doesn’t make sense to spend a lot of money on fancy equipment if you don’t know if you will actually use your home gym.
Many people buy expensive cardio machines like treadmills and stationary bikes, and they end up being clothes racks. For strength training, get a good set of dumbbells with the three weights you would use the most. For women, this might be a five, 10, and 15 pound set of dumbbells. A stability ball and resistance bands are great for strength training and do not cost much. They also will not take up much room. If you aren’t sure how to use a stability ball or resistance bands, you can find helpful videos and articles online.
The Cardio Club
When most people think of cardio, they think of running or walking on a treadmill, but there are lots of options for getting in a good cardio session that don’t require machines.
Create a circuit where you do several cardio exercises consecutively and rest in between. For example, run in place with high knees for two minutes, and then rest for one minute. Then do two minutes of jumping jacks and rest for one minute. Continue doing this and incorporate mountain climbers, squat thrusts, and burpees into the circuit as well. If your budget allows and you’re sure you will use it on a daily basis, invest in a good treadmill, elliptical trainer, or stationary bike. A top of the line treadmill can cost around $8,000 to $10,000. A more basic treadmill can cost around $2,000. Do your research first and then comparison shop by looking online and visiting retail stores like Fitness Depot or Life Fitness to find the best price for what you want.
Getting in shape can have long-lasting health benefits like weight loss, reduced stress-levels, blood pressure, and a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. If a home gym helps you reach these goals, go for it and get moving!
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