Basic Equipment To Start Your At-Home Gym

When I started going to the gym full time, I was completely hooked. I could go every day of the week without feeling like I needed a break. There was never any struggle; I would just get up and go. But over the years I started to realize that my body was changing, but my routine wasn’t. And sooner or later, it caught up to me…

I started exploring different options, leaning away from the repetitive gym-going. On days when I just didn’t feel like driving to the gym, I needed another way to get my workout in. And that’s when I began creating my own at-home gym. It’s certainly not for everyone, and it does take a whole lot of discipline. But if you’re feeling stuck like I was, there are plenty of ways to get back in the game. Here’s what I started with!

Resistance Bands

I used to be convinced that the best way to burn fat was with the heaviest set of weights I could life. And you know what happened? I gained a ton of unwanted muscle/bulk because I had no idea what I was doing. Heavy weightlifting can be the answer, but it all depends on your goals. With the injuries I’ve already dealt with, resistance bands have offered me a great way to challenge my muscles without over doing it. Plus, they don’t take up much space and are a great for an intense warm up.

Kettle Bells

Speaking of “heavy” weights, these beauties are easily my most versatile workout tools. Whether you’re focused on squats for a glute workout, or lateral raises for a shoulder burn, these can help you transition into any circuit. I got mine at Marshall’s for only $14.99 each, and they’re actually plastic!

Yoga Stretch Block

I invested in a couple of these about 2 weeks ago, and they’ve done wonders for my stretching. I have extremely tight leg muscles from overworking them, and it’s always been difficult to get an effective stretch. By placing my toes on the edge of the block and leaning in, I can get a full calf stretch anywhere. The compact size even allows me to bring it to the office.

Leg/Arm Weights

When I first started striving to lose weight, I bought these with the intention of running with them. But after doing some research and learning from my own body, I found that wasn’t the best idea. Instead, I’ve been using these for flutter kicks, leg raises, lunges, etc. and it’s made a huge difference in my form and strength. It’s such an inexpensive way to burn a few extra calories each workout.

Mini Bosu Ball

It’s really difficult to get a good ab workout at home when all you have are some weights and the floor. This little half-ball cushion makes it easier to challenge your core while remaining comfortable throughout your workout. There are multiple versions of it, with all different sizes and levels of firmness.

It’s easy to hate an at-home workout if you aren’t starting with the right materials. With all of these priced at $30 and under, there’s no reason why you can’t get some of your own! There are so many amazing options beyond what I have here, and they include all levels of fitness. Check out one of my other posts on my go-to fitness apparel.

What was your experience with workout out at home? What equipment would you recommend?