Consider your needs before you go out and buy equipment to start building a home gym. Nothing is more frustrating than spending money on equipment that you will never use because it is either too large, too complicated, or simply too advanced for you.
When constructing a home gym, the first consideration must be space. It’s a lot easier to work out in a spare room than it is to do so in the living room, among the furniture. The same can be said for storage space. Although foldable treadmills are more expensive, they are ideal for small apartments. If you intend to store the equipment after each workout, make certain that the machines have wheels. You are unlikely to be motivated to struggle with them on a daily basis, no matter how light they appear in the store.
If you’re on a tight budget, look for used equipment in the classified ads in your local newspaper or at garage sales. The majority of that equipment is rarely used and in excellent condition. If you’re in the market for new gear, shop around at different sporting goods stores to compare prices and try out different models.
Start with the basics when selecting equipment for your home gym. As your fitness level improves, you can always add more pieces. Both strength and aerobic workout equipment are required in a basic home gym. This can be as basic as free weights or as complex as a multistation machine with variable resistance.
Treadmills, stationary bikes, stair-climbers, and rowers are the most popular pieces of aerobic equipment for a home gym, in that order. While the final decision is a matter of personal preference, experts agree that for beginners, a treadmill is the best option. A simple adjustable aerobic step and a workout video can be a great way to get started for those on a budget.
Rubber tubing or rubber bands can be a good place to start when it comes to resistance training at home. The next step is to purchase a good set of free weights as well as a bench that is at least 36 inches (91.5 cm) wide. Top-tier stores like Ivanko and Sonata will provide excellent value for your money, with high-quality paint that won’t chip and smooth, easy-to-grab surfaces. If you know what you’re doing, a multistation machine can be a great addition to your home gym. Don’t waste hundreds of dollars on a workout that is too difficult or advanced for the type of workout you want to do.
If you do decide to purchase a large piece of equipment for your home gym, go all out. Top-of-the-line machines will set you back 2,000 to 3,000 dollars (USD), but they will be safer and last longer.