Building a custom gym in your home allows for aerobic exercise or strength training in a convenient place at any time of the day or night. Because you may spend a lot of time in this space and a lot of money on equipment, it is wise to do research before outfitting your new gym. Before beginning an exercise program, talk to your doctor about your physical condition and what your specific focus should be.
How Much Space Do I Need for a Home Gym?
The web site Home Gym Adviser recommends a room or area that is at least 10' x 10' to accomodate for free weights. This amount of space will allow space to push a bench in and out of a rack. You will also have enough room for a mat, a chin-up station and barbells.
As for the ceiling height of the room, Home Gym Adviser says that most multi-gyms measure 82 inches to 84 inches high. Be sure to measure the height of the room, especially if it has drop ceilings.
What Should I Put in My Home Gym?
Everybody has different fitness needs. If your focus will be on aerobic exercise, you will want to purchase gear that allows cardio work. This includes a treadmill, an elliptical trainer, a stair climber or a stationary bicycle. If your primary goal is strength training, a single-station gym, a multi-station gym, free weights, and a rowing machine should be on your list. Most exercise programs include cardio and strength training so you'll want to include a couple pieces for different types of exercise. The American Council on Exercise, ACE, recommends testing any equipment before you purchase it.
How Much Does it Cost to Create a Home Gym?
Every gym is different and, therefore, costs a different amount. The highest quality equipment will, most often, cost the most. However, there are options to meet every budget and it is possible to be creative. For example, the ACE explains that you can buy a stair climber for $1,500 or you can substitute benches with risers that can be used for step-training for less money. There are also dealers who sell used fitness equipment. Just be sure to get a warranty.
In Addition to Exercise Equipment, What Should I Put in My Home Gym?
Make your home gym is a comfortable place. Decorate it with motivational posters or pictures of your friends and family. Home-Designing suggests putting a refrigerator in your gym for bottles of water or energy drinks. The site also recommends hanging a full-length mirror so you can monitor your technique. A mirror also adds the feeling of spaciousness to a room. You may also want to add a CD player or radio and your favorite music collection. Finally, a TV helps pass the time while doing long workouts. You can also watch exercise videos on the television set.
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