DIY Home Gym

Fitness workout at home seem to be more practical for many people. Although it is nice to socialize while getting in shape, gym memberships are not for everyone. Whether it is about the cost or your time, you should find ways to stay fit and active.

America’s nutrition expert, Mitzi Dulan says, “Staying in shape doesn’t have to be expensive or a hassle. Outfitting a room, or even a corner of space, with fitness equipment is low in cost and still very effective (with the added convenience of proximity).”

Here are some pieces of equipment that will make a good start to your home-based fitness center.

Exercise Mat

• Better for stretching than carpet or hardwood floor.
• Provides better resistance and cushion for joints.
• Great to have if you plan to do some yoga or pilates.
• Price range: $12-$20

Swiss Ball

• Also known as stability balls.
• Provide your core muscles (abs and back) a real workout by keeping them constantly engaged as you stay balanced during various exercises.
• Price range: $12-$15

Mini Trampoline

• Rebounding exercises are good for the lymph system, and it’s also a good aerobic workout.
• Don’t go too hard and aim to stay centered in the trampoline.
• Go barefoot; socks can be too slippery.
• Price range: $35-$40

Free Weights

• Dumbbells are one of the least costly fitness apparatuses you can find.
• Provide a greater range of motion for your muscles.
• Can work out the strength in your back and abs as well as your biceps and triceps.
• Buy some 5, 7 1/2, and 10 pound weights to start.
• Price range: Varies. A pair of 3-pound free weights can start at about as little as $6.

Non Essentials

• Consider purchasing bigger equipment such as a treadmill, a stationary bike or an elliptical machine when you get into the habit of using your home-based gym regularly.

Here are some general tips when starting your home fitness center. Always keep it:

Simple. Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many equipment to choose from. You can pick one or two of the items above.
Separate. Try to find a separate space for your equipment, even if you have to start out by keeping everything in a closet when you’re not using it. If you can manage to make it work, try setting aside a distinct corner of a room. Make sure it is not cluttered with the rest of your belongings. Your fitness is a distinct priority and it deserves a well-defined, easily accessible location in your home.
Cool. You’re going to be breaking into a sweat during your workouts. Make sure the space you choose is cool, in close proximity to a fan or AC vents. A  garage or basement is ideal. Cool temperatures are also better for your equipment’s shelf life.
Fun. If you like to keep your mind occupied while you work out, you can keep a TV in your gym, stocked with the latest workout DVDs. A small refrigerator stocked with ice-cold bottles of water can also be a motivator.
Safe. Choose equipment that you’re comfortable using and talk to a trainer or specialist before buying something that you’ve never tried out before. Also, trade in your equipment for new items once they begin to show signs of wear and tear.

Who says working out has to be pricey and time-consuming? With all these tips, you can definitely make it work at your own home.

Image by melodramababs.

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