1. Determine Your Needs
So, you wanna get in shape. In today's world of rail-thin models and slim movie stars, almost everyone does. But because of cost, travel or other reasons, gyms are not for you. Luckily, you have the option of creating a home gym. But before you decide on which equipment to buy, ask yourself, "What am I working out for? What are my goals?" Determine what you want or need in a home gym. For instance, if you want to do a lot of cardio, you'll need a treadmill or elliptical. If huge muscles are part of your agenda, you'll need free weights or weight machines. Know what you want before you go shopping.
2. Define Your Space
Okay, now you know what you want, but where to fit it? If you're creating a home gym in a spare room or basement, make sure it's got enough space to work out comfortably. For example, some basements have low ceilings. Take that into account if you're planning on overhead lifting or pull-ups. If you're in tight quarters, save space by getting Powerblock dumbbells that adjust from five to 90 pounds instead of a rack of individual dumbbells.
3. Tight Abs and Tight Budgets
Before you lose pounds or inches from your waist, you'll lose from your wallet when creating a home gym. However, you can create a home gym on any budget. A stability ball, bands and a work-out video cost under $50. A chin-up bar, weight bench and Powerblock dumbbells go for a few hundred dollars. More elaborate equipment like Nautilus machines or BowFlex run into the thousands. Determine what equipment you can afford based on your fitness goals.
4. Take a Number, Please
The fitness bug can be catching. Before you create a home gym, find out if others in your household might use the equipment, too. Some weight machines, for instance, may not adjust to accommodate all sizes, or some treadmills and stationary bikes may not be right for all body types. When it comes to home gyms, one size may not fit all.
5. Dress Up Your Home Gym
You'll need more than weights or cardio equipment to create a home gym. Add things to make your area more enjoyable while you work out. Put a stereo or TV in the room. Put mirrors on the walls to make sure you're using proper form. Place a small refrigerator in one corner and stock it with bottled water and protein drinks. Hang motivational pictures. Personalize the space so it won't be a chore when you head off to your home gym for a great work-out.
Member Comments