November 20th, 2023
Building a home gym? Here are our top equipment recos
In the fast-paced world we live in, finding time to hit the gym can be a challenge. As a result, more and more fitness enthusiasts are turning to the convenience of home gyms and in-home personal trainers.
Though a home gym is not a requirement to work with us (in fact, all you need is a small amount of space and a yoga mat – we’ll take care of the rest!), having one can certainly be an asset.
If you’re fortunate enough to have the space, here are our recommended elements to transform it into a safe ane effective fitness haven!
FLOOR SUPPORT
Proper flooring protects your floor from heavy equipment. Options like rubber flooring or interlocking foam tiles are excellent choices to consider.
If you’re working with a smaller space or budget, a yoga mat or two – or at least something soft like a carpet or rug – should work just fine. While protecting your floors is important, the most important function of your floor support is to protect your body from harm or discomfort when performing floor-based exercises like crunches or planks.
SQUAT RACK
For serious strength training, a power rack or squat stand is the ultimate investment. This versatile piece of equipment allows you to perform squats, bench presses, and other compound movements safely. Look for one with adjustable safety bars and optional attachments for added versatility.
FREE WEIGHTS
If a squat rack is too large for your home (or even if it’s not), save space without compromising on your workout by investing in a variety of weights. Dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, and medicine balls are all fantastic options.
For an even more compact option, try adjustable dumbbells! They provide a wide range of resistance, allowing you to perform a variety of exercises without cluttering your space with too much equipment.
BENCHES
A sturdy, adjustable bench opens up a world of exercise possibilities. From chest presses to seated shoulder presses or tricep dips, a multi-functional bench adds support and versatility to your strength training routine. Most are also foldable for easy storage.
CARDIO EQUIPMENT
If you choose to include cardio equipment, there are options to suit your preference, space, budget and fitness goals. Treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical trainers, and rowing machines are popular choices. Investing in a piece of cardio equipment ensures that you can engage in effective cardiovascular workouts without leaving the comfort of your home, which can be a real asset, particularly during Canadian winters.
If a large piece of cardio equipment does not fit your space or budget, don’t underestimate the power of a jump rope! This simple and affordable tool delivers an excellent cardiovascular workout, improves coordination, and is an effective calorie burner.
RESISTANCE BANDS
Resistance bands are inexpensive, portable, and versatile tools that should not be overlooked. They can be used to add resistance to bodyweight exercises, provide assistance for pull-ups, and facilitate dynamic stretching.
Their versatility makes them an essential addition to any home gym. Portability also makes resistance bands extremely useful for travel! You can take your home gym, along with your online Nielsen Fitness trainer (ask us about our virtual training options) anywhere you go!
MIRRORS
Installing mirrors in your home gym serves both practical and motivational purposes. Mirrors help you check and maintain proper form during exercises, reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, they create a sense of space and provide visual feedback on your progress, boosting motivation.
STORAGE
Maintaining a clutter-free workout space is essential for a productive and enjoyable fitness routine. Invest in storage solutions like shelves, racks, or storage bins to keep your equipment organized and easily accessible. This not only enhances the aesthetics of your home gym but also ensures a seamless workout experience.
CLOSING WORDS
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, a well-equipped home gym provides the tools and convenience to achieve your health and wellness goals on your terms.
Building yours will be a personalized journey that depends on your fitness goals, available space, and budget. By carefully selecting from the options above, you can create a functional and inspiring workout space that caters to your needs.
And if you need help figuring out what to do with all that equipment? You know where to find us!