In the last two years of on and off lockdowns and gym closures, more and more people have taken to working out at home. This is all well and good but if you’re sincere about exercise it’s time to think seriously about your setup to help you smash your goals. Fortunately, equipment is becoming more and more cost-effective so it’s easier than ever to create a personal gym to be proud of. Read on for our top recommendations to kit out your gym and rival any large leisure center.
- Exercise Bike
A bike is an amazing piece of equipment for cardiovascular exercise. Cardio increases your heart health which will help you reach your overall fitness goals. If you’re stuck figuring out which bike to buy, check out this review of Gold’s gym 290c cycle trainer and consider it top of the list. Not only can you freecycle to your heart’s content, you can also follow its multiple program options, meaning it will stand the test of time as your goals change and grow.
- Yoga Mat
Even if you’re not a yoga or pilates pro, a yoga mat is a necessity for your home gym. Unless you have sprung flooring you need to think about the impact your workouts are having on your joints, so any form of machine-free cardio such as skipping should be done on your matt. They’re also useful when working out with weights as they can prevent your dumbbells from damaging your floor. Not to mention they’re perfect for your post-workout stretch!
- Dumbbells Set
These trusty little weights are useful for a variety of workouts. Perfect for training your core, your upper body, and lower body, these could very well be the hardest working piece of your home gym kit that you purchase!
- Adjustable Bench
Hand in hand with dumbbells goes a weight bench. Opt for an adjustable version for maximum versatility and you’ll be able to use it for a variety of exercises like bench presses, dumbbell rows, and chest presses.
- Resistance Bands
Small but mighty, resistance bands will level up your home gym without taking up space or a lot of money. Adding resistance to your movements maximizes their effectiveness so you’ll feel the benefits quickly and more intensely. They increase endurance, so you can add more reps quicker than you would be able to without them. Plus, they’re one of the most affordable bits of exercise equipment around, meaning you’ll be watching pennies while you’re losing pounds!
- Squat Rack
A squat rack will mean you can use barbells and focus on full-body moves. Squats, deadlifts, and heavier bench presses (with the help of your adjustable bench!) are the key to packing on muscles and burning through fat, so having a power cage will enable you to push yourself to the max.
- Ab Roller
If you’re working towards a carved-out six-pack then an ab roller will help you on your way. Not only great for abs, a wheel will also give you a powerful upper body workout with just one piece of equipment and one movement.
What’s your go-to piece of home gym equipment? Let us know in the comments.
