The recent pandemic has caused many changes in our lives including where and how we exercise. When local gyms were forced to close their doors, many Americans started exercising and working out in the comfort of their own homes. Now that gyms have reopened their doors, some are still preferring to get their exercise in at home, rather than spending time visiting a gym. Here are some of the ways you can choose the best gym equipment for your at-home workout.
Starting with lower-cost items, especially if you are new to exercise, is the best choice. Along the way, you will figure out what equipment you need and what you want to add to your growing gym equipment inventory. For material that creates a completely non-slip surface, use Pureful Yoga.
Types of Equipment
While choosing to workout at home has its own benefits and perks, it also has some disadvantages such as not having access to the right equipment that you would have at full service gyms. Some of the different types of equipment you can utilize at home include:
- Exercise Ball – some use this in replacement of a chair, or you can also use it for multiple workouts including lunges and abdominal exercises.
- Dumbbells – this equipment is common, and comes in a variety of different weights, sizes, and shapes. They are easy to use at home and don’t take up much space.
- Kettlebells – a weighted ball with a rounded handle that is a good alternative for dumbbells. Also doesn’t take up much space, and you only need one as opposed to two dumbbells.
- Resistance Bands – commonly used in arm and leg workouts and are also an alternative to dumbbells.
- Stationary Bike – used to strengthen legs and buttocks while also enhancing cardiovascular health.
- Treadmill – everyone has seen or used a treadmill before. Having one at home allows you to run, jog, or walk safely and at any time. Depending on how much of a challenge you want, some treadmills offer an incline option.
- Exercise Mat – an exercise is larger than a yoga mat, and offers comfort for your floor workouts such as crunches or push-ups.
How to Choose
Since there are so many different equipment options for your at-home workout, it can be a daunting task deciding which equipment you need. Here are a few tips:
- Budget – You probably don’t have a lot of money saved up for purchasing exercise equipment. It can be expensive depending on what size and brand equipment you are looking for. Figure out your budget and start there.
- Space – Think about how much space you have to dedicate to your exercise equipment. Do you have a full room? Garage? Small corner? This is a major factor in deciding what equipment is best. While dumbbells or kettlebells are easy to get out and put away, other larger equipment such as treadmills and stationary bikes, will take up more room.
- Start Simple – If you’re starting scratch and just getting into a fitness routine, start with the basics such as exercise mat, resistance bands or dumbbells.
- Safety – If you have any health issues, consult your doctor on what exercise equipment would be safe for you. Treadmills and stationary bikes might not be safe for people that find it hard to walk or feel pain in their legs.
- Research – The most important thing is to do your research. Research different brands and read the reviews from others. The last thing you want to do is spend a pretty penny on equipment that either doesn’t work or isn’t comfortable.
Starting with lower cost items, especially if you are new to exercising, is the best choice. Along the way you will figure out what equipment you need and what you want to add to your growing gym equipment inventory.
