Get In Shape: 4 Ways To Start A Home Gym

It doesn’t have to be complicated. The marvels of modern shopping make it easy to get the right equipment, either new or used, into your home for your fitness needs. But it still takes willpower and dedication to adhere to a workout schedule. Here are some suggested basic items for building a simple home gym:

1. Yoga mat: This low-cost purchase can be used for everything from Pilates, yoga, and tai chi to basic stretching. This can also be used to help support the knees when exercises require balance on one or both knees.
2. Resistance bands and a set of hand weights: A set of 2-, 5- and 8-pound weights should be adequate. Aim higher if you can do 12 to 15 reps without much effort. Also consider bodyweight exercise straps that can mount to the ceiling or doorway for a full body challenge.
3. Fitness DVDs or streaming classes: Regardless of which route you take, be sure to get a broad selection to help focus on different muscle groups and prevent boredom. Online classes can be free or paid for by the class or in bulk.  Try a few out and see which ones you like best, then add them to your workout calendar to help keep you on track. Set up your screen near your workout area for easy access. If you have children at home, get them involved by having them “join” your class with you.
4. Treadmill, elliptical trainer or recumbent bicycle: The stationary recumbent bicycle is especially good if you are overweight, dealing with knee or hip issues or looking for a good way to perform high intensity intervals with low injury risk. While these can all be expensive purchases, they are likely to be more cost effective than a gym membership – if you use them! Look for secondhand equipment; just make sure the machine you like runs smoothly and relatively quietly. If cost is prohibitive either way, schedule in time for free cardio: walk up and down any stairs in your home (or elsewhere), and go for a daily walk.

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