Gyms are often crowded and expensive. More people are choosing home gyms this year to avoid the hustle.
Before setting up your home gym though, you need to understand that unlike the gym you may have limited space at home and sometimes no professional assistance. It is therefore very important that you get functional equipment that will help you achieve your fitness goals.
With our home gym accessory list below you get the overall idea of what is needed. Each accessory obviously depends on how much space you have available. Even though most of the accessories on this list don’t take up much room.
Little things that do big things
1. Jump ropes.
They are inexpensive and work with limited space. Jump ropes are a great cardio tool, in-fact ten solid minutes of rope work is equivalent to a 30 minutes jog.
They come in lightweight and weighted versions. The weighted version is more costly but they are great for a more advanced fitness level.
2. Yoga mats.
Nearly every exercise is possible on a yoga mat. You can work your abs, gluts, arms or back on the mat. They can be used to absorb shock on harder floors or on carpeted areas to prevent sweaty messes. Yoga mats are inexpensive, easy to clean and store away.
3. Pull-up bars.
Pull-ups are great at working your upper body especially your arms, chest, and core. But they are crazy hard and most of us can only dream of a perfect count of 10. Having a bar around could really help you get better at pull-ups.
The bars are cheap, quick and easy to install on a high wall or on the door frame.
4. Resistance bands.
If you are familiar with workout videos you may already know about resistance bands. They work with your own body weight for resistance.
Once you know what is expected the bands are easy to use. They barely occupy storage space and add value to your fitness journey.
Resistance bands vary in type and function, some resistance bands can also be used as suspension bands. The cost will vary depending on the brand.
5. Ab wheels.
As the name suggests they work your abs. Ab wheels are great for strengthening your abs and flattening your tummy, at the same time they work your back and arms.
Most ab wheels will not cost you more than a couple of dollars. Be sure to have enough space for using them and to work within your pace.
6. Exercise DVDs
Most trainers create workout DVDs for the home user. They keep in mind space and equipment. They help turn your living space into a gym without much effort. Some exercise DVDs will help you achieve your fitness goals without the use of any equipment at all.
Machine free strength training equipment.
7. Dumbbells.
These are a great addition to your home gym especially if you are into strength training.
You will not need to buy different weight sets as adjustable dumbbells are widely available. They are also cheaper and can help gauge your fitness level.
Dumbbells are versatile, you can use for aerobics, chest workouts, back workouts and to target different muscles in the arms and shoulders.
8. Kettlebells
Kettlebells function like dumbbells but they come in a unique shape making them more flexible. You can do a lot more with kettle-bells.
Kettle bells can be bought as separate weight sets or as one adjustable set.
9. Medicine balls
This is a great addition to your home gym. You can use medicine balls for both cardio and strength training. They are amazing at working your entire body. Grabbing one with both hands helps to enhance your squats, lunges or sit-ups.
Machines
10. Treadmills
Running and walking is one of the most effective cardio exercises. A treadmill is an ultimate work out equipment and you will never regret having one. Home treadmills are not as big and space consuming as most commercial ones. You can even fold some when they are not in use to create space if needed, check our best cardio machines list.
11. Stationary bike
If you love cycling and spin class you will appreciate the stationary bike. They are great for cardio and target your leg muscles.
They may not be very cheap but they are an excellent addition to your home gym.
12. Elliptical machines
Good for low impact cardio, this machine is effective at working your arms, legs and the heart.
There are simpler less bulky types that are made for smaller spaces and rely on your core stability to work effectively.
Getting the right equipment can be overwhelming, remember to work within your budget and only go for functional equipment.
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