If you want to have a healthy body and good overall health, you should have a regular exercise regimen. There are gyms everywhere to help you achieve your health goals.
However, going to the gym may require signing up for a membership, which can cost hundreds of dollars annually. It can be challenging to head to your neighborhood gym if the outside weather is not really travel-friendly. Parking can also be a problem in many gyms. With these kinds of situations, you may want to spend the day lying in your bed or watching your favorite TV show instead.
On the other hand, you can have your own workout equipment at home. Having the following exercise equipment gives you no excuse not to be fit and healthy. You won’t have to travel and pay monthly fees to use your local gym’s facilities.
Your own workout machines do not necessarily have to take up a lot of space in your home. You also don’t have to spend a fortune to have your own home gym. If you do have to spend on exercise equipment, there should be no regrets because it is a useful investment for you.
Here are some of the best pieces of equipment for your very own home gym:
1. Dumbbells
Dumbbells are not only for muscle toning but are also great cardio exercise equipment. You can do several exercise routines using high-quality dumbbells. It is also a nice idea to purchase dumbbells with weight ranges. Usually, a set of dumbbells has weights ranging from 5 to 25 lbs or more. Dumbbells come with plastic shells or iron exteriors and vary in price depending on the material used.
2. Exercise ball
This is no ordinary ball – you can do a lot of exercise routines using this piece of exercise equipment. You can even incorporate dumbbells for a more challenging workout. An exercise ball can also help you work on your core strength and improve balance and stability. You can do push-ups, pull-ups and leg lifts, or just sit on it while watching your favorite TV show to help reduce back pain.
3. Weight bench
Weight benches are usually adjustable depending on your workout needs. Weight benches are normally used for back and chest exercises with the help of dumbbells. You can also do abdominal exercises and tricep dips using weight benches.
4. Elliptical trainer
This workout equipment is a gym staple, and so should be in your home. It is said to be a combination of a ski machine and stair-stepper. Most brand-new elliptical trainers are naturally expensive. However, it can be a great investment for your health because you can use it in the long run. Plus, it has adjustable settings that can help make your workout less stressful.
5. Rowing machine
This exercise equipment primarily works your limbs, particularly the arms and legs as well as your back. Just imagine yourself rowing an actual boat, and you will realize how challenging yet fulfilling mastering this machine can be. Rowing machines are available in pulley and piston models, but experts recommend the latter for a close-to-reality experience.
6. Stair steppers
This piece of exercise equipment will make you feel like you are going up and down real stairs, only that it has additional hand grips for easier use. Using the stair stepper may not be as easy as it seems because it can strain your knees. This is why handrails are also included in the machine for added support. Also, look for stair steppers with wide foot pads for a more enjoyable exercise.
7. Stationary bike
This staple piece of workout equipment can provide a great cardiovascular exercise. It is easy to use, but it can be uncomfortable when used for long hours at a time. Choose one that has an adjustable and comfortable seat and toe clips on the pedals.
8. Treadmill
A treadmill is a great piece of cardio workout equipment you can use in the comfort of your home. You can run or walk on a treadmill, depending on your preferred cardio workout. You can also adjust its speed and set it to Hill Mode or 5K Mode and choose its inclination level for an added cardio challenge.
9. Resistance bands
Not only do resistance bands use minimum storage space but they are also a great way to achieve a holistic body workout. They are affordable and lightweight, and you can choose your resistance level depending on your workout needs.
10. Exercise Mat
If you are into yoga or anything with floor exercises, then you should have a high-quality exercise mat to keep you company. Choose ones that are non-slip, thick, and well-padded for an accident-free and maximum home workout experience.