Working out at home has never been more popular or easy! Just as people are turning their spare rooms into offices, they’re also embracing the benefits that come with exercising at home. If you can’t get to the gym, or you’re simply someone who prefers to get your sweat on in the comfort of your own space, there’s no reason your workout can’t be as effective.
Whether you’re looking to build muscle or burn calories, with the right equipment you can turn your at-home workout space into a bona fide mini gym. Plus, with all the added benefits of working out at home – you don’t have to worry about other people and can blast your music as loud as you like – you might even find that it’s even better than going to the gym. If this sounds like you, here are our top gear recommendations.
Exercise or yoga mat
When it comes to building an at-home workout space, an excellent place to start is with an exercise mat. Even if you’re not practicing yoga, a mat is great for pushups, crunches and other floorwork exercises.
Not only will it make your workout more comfortable, protecting your knees, back and forearms from hard floors, but a non-slip mat will add an extra layer of stability and protect you from any potential slippage when things get sweaty.
Resistance bands
Resistance bands are one of the most versatile pieces of equipment. They can be used to tone muscles and build strength in almost any part of the body. They also have the added benefit of being incredibly lightweight and compact, making them portable and easy to store.
There are various types of resistance bands, with differing levels of intensity. Including a few in your training is a great way to target different areas of your body. If you really want to up your game, you can even purchase a resistance band set, complete with additional handles and straps for ultimate resistance training.
Kettlebells
Another versatile piece of equipment and a staple for many, kettlebells are great for working strength, endurance, flexibility and balance. They also make for an excellent cardio exercise if you want to avoid high-impact activities like running. Kettlebells are also incredibly effective when it comes to calorie burning.
Dumbbells
Excellent for building muscle and burning calories, dumbbells are a great choice for general fitness. They’re also more straightforward to use than kettlebells – dumbbells have even weight distribution, as well as traction on their handles for grip – making them a good option for those who don’t have a lot of experience with weights. Dumbbells usually range from 1-20 kilos, allowing you to easily tailor your workout to your experience level or target specific areas. If you’re looking to incorporate a range of weights, you can even pick up a dumbbell set.
Boxing bag
Boxing is a perfect way to engage in a full-body workout, working upper body muscles in your arms, chest, back and shoulders, as well as your legs and core. Boxing also helps improve balance and hand-eye coordination, making you feel more alert and improving your mood. Boxing is also just a fun way to workout, and if you’ve never tried it before, there are plenty of YouTube videos that cover boxing techniques for beginners. If you have limited space, a freestanding punching bag is also a great option as a compact piece of workout equipment.
Treadmill
When it comes to exercise machines, a treadmill is a great option for anyone who enjoys running or walking. Treadmills lessen the impact of hard outdoor surfaces, providing a softer-impact surface that’s better for your joints. An excellent cardio workout, running on the treadmill is a great way to lose weight, improve muscle and bone density, and strengthen your heart. Of course, treadmills are often around two metres in length, so keep in mind you’ll need to have a decent amount of space available.
Stationary bike
If you like the idea of an exercise machine but a treadmill isn’t your thing, a workout bike is another great option. Not only is cycling an excellent way to burn calories, but as a cardiovascular workout, it also strengthens vital organs including your heart and lungs, as well as your muscles. A low-impact exercise, bike riding is also ideal for anyone who has injuries or joint issues. Exercise bikes are generally smaller than treadmills, making them a good option for anyone who wants to use an exercise machine, but doesn’t have an endless amount of space.
With so much to choose from, the most important consideration to keep in mind is the kind of exercise that appeals to you – and purchase equipment accordingly. At the end of the day, if you enjoy the exercise you’re doing, you’re much more likely to show up and do the work, so that you reap the benefits of a healthier body and mind.
