So you have decided to take the plunge, and bought that first home gym. Congrats! You worked hard for it, and finally accomplished a goal you had set for yourself since high school.
The next step is to make sure you have everything you need to do your bodyweight workouts. This includes appropriate workout gear, the right supplements, and of course, the essential gym items mentioned above. To help you make the right choice, we have curated a list of the essentials for a successful home gym. Read on to find out more about them.
Workout Clothing
This category includes everything from jogging suits to compression shirts and leggings. You don’t need to spend a fortune on any one piece of gear in this category, as long as you get what you pay for, you will be fine. Avoid anything that is made of artificial materials, as these items will only waste your time, and potentially damage your health.
Warm-Up Drills
This is an important category, as you wouldn’t want to hurt yourself by working out without proper warming up first. The best option in this category is an indoor cycling bike, which provides a full body workout while also warming you up for your actual exercise session. If you don’t have one, it’s time to visit the doctor so he can prescribe you a bicycle.
Fitness Tracker
If you are serious about your workout regimen, it’s time to invest in a fitness tracker. These are small wearable devices that track your activity, and provide you with useful data such as your heart rate, calorie consumption, and more. When you exercise regularly, your body starts to produce more of the chemicals that the fitness tracker relies on to function. The good news is that the chemicals are very stable, so in cases where the device stops working, it’s usually because you have exceeded the expiration date. If you are interested, you can find a list of the best fitness trackers here. Some of the more popular brands include Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple.
Muscle Toning Exercises
Now that you have a workout buddy, it’s time to build up your muscles. One of the best ways of doing this is through muscle dancing, also known as Bodyweight Dancing. This is a great exercise for beginners and veterans alike, as it builds up your muscles while also giving you a full-body workout. Some people call it “Parkour for Weight Loss”.
To get started, simply choose any weight you can handle (the average person can handle about 10-15 pounds), and start moving around with it. You will quickly start to see the results of your efforts, as your body builds up endurance, and you burn calories as you dance. Once you start to see results, increase your weights each week, and before you know it, you will be able to lift much heavier things around the house.
Free Weights
If you really want to build up your muscles, nothing promotes that better than free weights. When you have free weights, you can lift any weight you want, and gain strength gradually. Some people prefer using weights with a barbell, as they feel it gives their workout a more organized and professional look. Regardless, once you establish your routine, and get used to squatting, lunging, and pressing, you will feel the benefits for many years to come. If you are new to working out, but want to make the right choice for your body, it’s best to avoid using any plastic weights in favor of metal ones.
Bench
A bench is an indispensable item in every home gym. A good quality bench can really boost your morale during your workout. If you are running on a treadmill, or going through the motions on an indoor bike, but still feel like you aren’t getting the full benefit of the workout, a good old fashioned bench can provide the extra push you need to finish strong. The best part about a bench is its versatility. You can place it almost anywhere in your home to get the most out of it. If you have a space where you don’t want to put a conventional gym machine, a bench is the perfect alternative.
Upper Body Weight Bag
This type of bag is more suited for weight lifters, as it allows you to carry around your heavier weights. The best Upper Body Weight Bags are designed to carry 25 pounds or more. If you are into bodybuilding or weightlifting, these bags can be very useful, as they allow you to practice your lifts without having to worry about falling over.
Lower Body Weight Bag
If you are into working your legs more than your arms, or if you just want to give your lower body a workout, then a lower body weight bag is for you. These bags are usually made of hard materials to prevent any accidents from occurring during use. If you buy a quality item in this category, you will have a better workout experience overall, as you can feel safer knowing your legs are locked up tight while working out. Some people use these bags to shake their legs, while some others use them to work out their entire body, including their arms and neck.
Rope
A rope is a fundamental part of every gym. No home gym would be complete without a rope, as it promotes flexibility, and helps you find your limits. When you are working with a rope, it’s best to start by taking a rest, then gradually increase your speed and effort as your muscles get used to the movement. When you are starting, simply walk at a comfortable pace, ensuring that you are not pulling too hard on the rope. Remember to breathe, and avoid straining yourself.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a weightless alternative, then you should look into an elastic band, which can provide the same benefits as a rope, but without all the weight. An elastic band is also better because it allows for more variation in your workout routine. If you are new to working out, then try out a few different products before deciding which one you like best. Sometimes, the wrong type or size of an elastic band can cause discomfort during exercise. This is why it’s important to try out a range of products before buying any one in particular.
Bucket Set
A bucket set is a collection of several different sized buckets connected to a water hose. You can attach one end of the hose to a bucket, then move it around with you as you exercise. When you are stationary, the water will flow steadily out of the nozzle, keeping your body warm and moist, while also reducing the risk of dehydration. In addition to aiding hydration, the water also provides a soothing noise, and prevents you from overdosing on music.
The main advantage of a bucket set is its portability. Since you don’t need to fix the nozzle to a fixed object, you can take it with you wherever you go. This is ideal for someone who wakes up earlier than usual and wants to work out before heading to work, or for someone who wants to work outdoors but doesn’t have room for a conventional gym. In case there’s ever been a debate about whether to get a regular gym membership or buy your own bucket set, the answer is evident — get the buckets!
Adjustable Dumbbells
These are exactly what they sound like; adjustable dumbbells. Also known as hybrid dumbbells, or the functional equivalent, these are great for people who want to work out on their own, without having to go to a gym. Just set the weight how you want it, then attach one end of the handle to a fixed object like the wall, or your hand, and you are good to go.
As with most home gym equipment, the quality varies, so you should expect to spend more money on these than you would otherwise. Still, as long as you get what you pay for, you will be satisfied with the results. In addition to providing convenience, adjustable dumbbells offer the benefits of varied workouts, and improved health. Since your hands are free to perform the exercises, you are less likely to experience wrist and hand injuries, which can occur from using too much weight with conventional dumbbells. Finally, many people find that using adjustable dumbbells helps them get in shape for the coming winter, as the heat encourages them to work out more.