Ban the Gym

If you are going to work out at home it helps to have some equipment.  Many exercises don’t need equipment but it helps to have some to keep challenging yourself.  I look for two qualities when buying anything for my home gym: affordability and versatility.  I don’t want to spend a fortune for something I can only do one exercise with.  So, I give you my four essential items for any home gym.

1.  Adjustable Dumbbells- You can get amazing full body workouts with dumbbells.  But different exercises call for different size dumbbells.  Adjustable dumbbells are the solution.   Nowadays there are many options when shopping for these- different weights and sizes for all strength levels.  I use PowerBlocks.  These dumbbells start at 5 pounds and top out at 50 pounds and are adjustable in 5 pound increments.  The best thing about them is that in the space of one set of dumbbells you get 10 sets.  Cost: $300 (the stand cost an extra $100 but isn’t necessary)

2.  Stability Ball- You can do so many exercises and these are so affordable that I think everyone should have one of these.  You can work your legs, abs, and upper body and when you are not exercising you can use it as a fun seat.  It is also a great toy for young kids!  Cost: $30

3.  Medicine Ball-  Another piece of equipment that costs little but gives you many options for exercise.  Throws, slams, chops, twists are just a few of the exercises you can pull off with a good medicine ball.  Cost $30 (for a 4kg/8.8lb ball)

4.  Foam Roller-  For those of you who aren’t familiar with this foam tube, this is my main tool for self-care. I beat my body up enough with exercise so this is how I take care of it when it is sore and tight.  You can roll around on this in different positions to massage all your muscle groups.  It is basically poor man’s massage.  I use this as part of my warm-up for every workout.  It works out the kinks from earlier workouts and gets me ready for the work I’m about to do.    Cost $10

These are my staples.  I do have other “toys” in my home gym but those are just bonus items that allow me to add some variety to my workouts.  It may not look like much but with these 4 items alone I can get (and give) a challenging full body workout.