As an online coach, the majority of my clients choose to workout from the comfort of their own home. Because of this, one of my most frequently asked questions is, "What kind of stuff do I need to work out at home?" Let's get into it!
First things first, you actually don't need anything but yourself to get a workout in. Bodyweight exercises are fantastic and often the place that I start when I build programs for my clients. But, I get that variety is the spice of life, and so I put together My Home Gym Checklist IF you decide to exercise at home.
SPACE
Plain and simple. This isn't something you need to buy, but it is something you'll likely have to create for yourself. If you have a room that goes largely unused, repurpose it into a workout space. If you live in a tiny little apartment, dedicate a corner of the room to hold your equipment and choose furniture that can be easily shifted out of the way, or even incorporated into your workout! It doesn't have to be fancy. This is our workout zone that's in our unfinished basement. We put a rug down to make it a little cozier, but everything we need is right here between the boxes!
YOGA MAT
No matter the workout, at some point you're going to be laying or kneeling on the ground. Having a mat can help you with both cushion and traction during your workout. I personally love having one with a little more thickness because it just feels better. Whatever you decide, just make it one that you'll use.
RESISTANCE BANDS OR SUPER BANDS
These guys come in a variety of sizes, colors, brands, handles, and attachements. For resistance bands, I prefer the ones that are cloth covered. This helps prevent the band from snapping back on you should it break. As for attachements, you can get either a wall anchor or use a door strap; I also like having an ankle band for these.
Superbands are the ones that look like giant rubber bands. These can be a little more versitile, but are also more expensive. That said, you don't have to buy a whole set right off the bat. Start with one or two and as you get stronger you can build from there.
If you really want to go all out, get a set of both!
ADJUSTABLE DUMBBELLS
These are the kinds that have multiple weights attached to one handle. These not only save space, they save a LOT of money. I love them also for families that workout in the same household because it allows each person to really be able to lift their perfect weight. We have the Bowflex ones and the've been great! Even my 8 year old knows how to use them.
WORKOUT BENCH
Ideally one that is adjustable at least on the back from flat to sitting straight up and a few notches in between. There are plenty on the market that don't cost a fortune, and that are lightweight and compact; some even fold up for storage when not in use!
FUN EXTRAS
Are there more things you could add? Of course. But you don't have to. You can always start with what's above and add to it as you go. If you're looking to really building out a full gym space at home, here's a list of other items you can add (in no particular order):
Step or Block that's adjustable for multiple heights
Balance ball, appropriate for your height
Yoga Block (or two)
Yoga Strap
Foam Roller
Hip bands (these look like super bands but are much smaller)
Medicine balls (the hard ones)
Smash balls (the soft ones)
Kettlebells (there are adjustable ones of these, too)
Suspension trainer
Treadmill, elliptical, and/or exercise bike
Pull up bar
Barbells & weights
Ready to build out your best home gym? I created a printable Home Gym Checklist that you can get here for free.
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