Having a gym in your home is a convenient way to ensure you never miss a workout. If you choose the right pieces of equipment, you are able to get the same quality of workout as you would in a commercial gym. Equipment should be selected based on versatility and the ability to perform multiple exercises on the same piece of equipment.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells allow you to train all the major muscle groups of your body. Using dumbbells that are adjustable, where you can add and subtract additional weight plates, will allow you to train each muscle with the proper resistance.
Chin-up Bar
A chin-up bar is used primarily for chin-ups and pull-ups but can also be used for a variety of abdominal exercises, including leg raises. A chin-up bar may also be used as an anchor point for resistance bands and as a support for other bodyweight exercises.
Flat Bench
A flat exercise bench may be used for the dumbbell bench press, dumbbell rows and seated dumbbell presses. The flat bench also makes a great step or platform for dumbbell step-ups, box jumps and dumbbell box squats.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are large elastic bands that come in a variety of lengths and strength levels. As the band stretches, the amount or resistance provided by the band will increase. These bands may be used for upright rows, lateral raises and triceps push-downs.
Stability Ball
The stability ball is often used for abdominal exercises, including crunches and reverse crunches. The unstable nature of the ball requires you to work different stabilizing muscle groups while seated on the ball. The stability ball may also be used as a unique alternative to seated dumbbell presses or lateral raises.
References
- Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning; Thomas Baechle and Roger Earle; 2009
- Encyclopedia of Muscle & Strength; Jim Stoppani; 2006
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