9 Must-Have Items for a Home Gym
Do you want to stay fit without going to the gym every day? I have the perfect idea for you. You should set up a home gym! If you have even a little free space in your home, you can make this worthwhile investment. I started working on my home gym at the beginning of the pandemic and slowly incorporated items to make my home workout experience as comfortable (and convenient) as possible. Let’s walk through the basic items that you need for your home gym. I am including links for the items I have deemed the 9 must-have items for a home gym!
And, because I’ve of course found a few more favorites along the way, I’ll include some honorable mentions that you might want to check out. I’m always finding fun items to keep me motivated and inspired to work out as much as possible.
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What are some useful items for working out at home?
You do not have to have a large space to create a home gym. You can dedicate the corner of a room or even a garage or basement just for the items you need to get a complete workout. The items you choose will depend on the type of exercise you prefer. But honestly, you do not need a whole lot of equipment. The important thing is that you are setting yourself up to exercise more so you can be healthier. I am going to share some of my favorites with you.
An interlocking exercise mat
A gym without the exercise mat on the floor? Nah. These mats provide you a cushioned floor where you can work out safely. Since they are interlocking, you can separate them and conveniently store them when not in use. Not only are they great for protecting your floors from equipment, but they are also an added touch when you are doing floor exercises.
A pair of dumbbells
Dumbbells are a staple in any home gym. They are one of the best pieces of exercise equipment for beginners. You can choose the weight according to your preference and skill level. Or, you can get a set of these fabulous adjustable dumbbells so you will not have to purchase multiple sets!
A kettlebell
This is a fantastic item to add to your weightlifting rotation. Kettlebells are ideal for squats, jerks, lunges, etc. This piece of equipment allows you to engage in more challenging exercises. You should look for kettlebells that have big smooth handles.
A jump rope
Jumping rope is harder than it looks and it is an excellent source of cardiovascular exercise. It also improves your coordination. You can get an adjustable jump rope that is either a light wire to work on your time and speed or a heavy rope to polish your strength.
A pair of fitness sliders
I don’t own fitness sliders, but they are on my list of items to add to my home gym. This tool challenges your core and leg strength. You can either use these in a yoga pike or take your lunges and planks up a notch. These are customizable for beginners or pros.
Resistance bands
Resistance bands can really enhance your workout! You can place them above your knees for a lower body workout. Or, you can also use them for shoulder and arm exercises. They come in different sizes to increase/decrease the level of intensity.
A medicine ball
This weighted ball is a great item for plyometric exercise along with core strength movements. You can throw it, carry it, or perform abdominal exercises using it. You can even do a push up on the ball. Purchase a soft ball, so it’s not as hard if it hits you.
A suspension training system
This is a complete set that you can anchor anywhere to get a full-body workout. It combines bodyweight movement along with balance exercises like planks, etc.
A workout bench
You don’t want to keep sitting or standing on the floor to do exercises! This workout bench is ideal for movements like chest press and dumbbell rows. You can also perform other lower body exercises using this bench.
Final thoughts
Setting up a home gym is a decision that you aren’t likely to regret. Just make sure that you buy the equipment that fits in your budget. Follow a routine that works for your lifestyle, and you will be able to get good use out of your home gym.
Do you have any of these items? Which items did I leave off of the list? Leave your thoughts in the comments.
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