Getting to the gym is hard. Plus, there's always an excuse not to go. What if you had a gym in your home? Having a home gym does not have to cost you thousands of dollars. A few simple pieces of equipment can go a long way. Continue reading for how to build a home fitness center on a budget.
Mats & Resistance Bands
You may already own a workout mat, which is good. However if you don't, these are very inexpensive to purchase and will be used for almost every activity you do. A good mat should cost no more than $15. Movements like push-ups, ab workouts, stretching, and more should all be done using a mat. There are two types of mats; yoga and Pilates. Yoga mats are thinner and have better gripping abilities, while Pilates mats are thicker and have more cushion. Choose one that works best for you and makes you feel more comfortable. If you have a hard floor, it is best to have a thicker mat. Resistance bands are another inexpensive item that should be included in any home gym. These should only cost about $10 and can be found online or in stores. Having these bands give you the ability to add an extra challenge to any workout. They can be used with lower body activities such as side swats and clam-shells. You should purchase a pair with a few different strengths, this way when one becomes too easy, you can move to the next one.
Stability & Medicine Balls
This equipment is a great addition to any home gym. The stability ball is great for working the core muscles. Stability balls have different sizes, so it is important to find the right size for you. Short people need a 55 centimeter ball and taller people may need one that's 65 centimeters to 75 centimeters. Various exercises that involve the core, legs, and arms can be done with this ball. Stability balls are perfect for getting back into shape after an injury. It is also effective for those with lower back pain. On the other hand, medicine balls are smaller and come in various weights. It is suggested to get a medium weight to refrain from buying multiple ones. Just make sure its not to heavy and you won't drop it. These balls help to improve muscle strength and sports performance.
Dumbbells, Weight Plates, & Kettlebells
These are the last pieces to complete your home gym. Different types of weights are required for different workouts. These wights can be used for triceps, biceps, and lower back exercises. A dumbbell is a shorter form of the barbell which is about 10 to 15 inches long. Exercises usually include one bar in each hand. Weight plates are flat circular weights that can be used in both hands or added to additional barbell weights. Kettlebells are round weights that have a handle. They are commonly used for increasing your gripping strength. They also allow you to build strength in the lower back and legs.
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-Franki
